A SCHEME to find the next generation of great sports coaches has been launched by the Vale council.

Coaches of the Future is part of the Vale of Glamorgan Council's Olympic legacy programme to help inspire a generation and give young people the opportunity to develop an involvement in sports leadership and coaching.

At the launch of the scheme, GB 400m hurdler Rhys Williams spoke to teenagers at the Council Chamber in Barry.

Rhys told the group how invaluable coaches were in his success on the athletics track and was on hand to answer questions.

The young coaches participated in an intensive week of training during October half term where they gained coaching qualifications.

All 19 coaches of the future will now be volunteering within their secondary school, local primary school or community sports club. They will also be undertaking further training in the near future.

Councillor Gwyn John, Cabinet Member Leisure, Parks, Culture and Sports Development said: “The scheme provides an excellent opportunity for young people to get on the coaching ladder when they are young and to develop their knowledge of their sport to pass on to players and volunteers in the game.

"I have been a football coach for 40 years and I have enjoyed every moment of the experience of coaching and seeing the development and improvement of those I have worked with.

"I would encourage all young people to take the opportunities offered them and sign up today.”