STUDENT Danny Maynard has won a prestigious award from the University of Central Lancashire in recognition of his coaching work with Blackburn Harriers.

The 18-year old recently completed the first year of a degree course in Sports Coaching at UCLAN, and as well as his academic studies he has been keen to further his practical knowledge, completing more than 100 hours of coaching with the club’s youngsters – particularly the Under 11s, who have obviously benefited with some strong performances in last winter’s Lancashire Sportshall League Series.

Danny received the UCLAN Volunteer 2010-2011 Award in recognition of “the significant contribution” he made in his community thorugh “committed volunteering”.

Speaking on behalf of Blackburn Harriers, George Davies said: “Danny is a really committed lad and works really hard with the Club’s Sportshall Group, on Startrack, as well as competing himself in the National Junior League, local road races, club relays and cross country.”

Last year Maynard was the Lancashire Schools’ Champion in the 3,000 metres and he has recently turned to the triathlon to win the U20s title in the Darwen Triathlon in his first attempt at the sport.

He is an all round sportsman who plays cricket for Darwen and was once offered a trial with Burnley FC.

However, despite his prowess, he says that he sees his future more in coaching than in competing.