THE COACH is an important figure within a club, often one of the first people introduced to new members and often a person who plays a vital role in people’s perceptions of a club.
It can also be a rewarding role for those that enjoy seeing the enjoyment and improvement in young juniors right up to the senior riders.
This time we turn our focus to the Goulburn Valley Junior Motorcycle Club where Matthew Ryan is a coach.
How long have you been a member of Goulburn Valley Junior Motorcycle Club?
I have been a member of the Goulburn Valley Junior Motorcycle Club for 12 years now, on and off. I first joined up because they were running really good practice days with long sessions which was great for my training.
What have been some of the great changes that you’ve seen at the club?
Some of the great changes of late would be the recent addition of a mini bike track at the venue, this has almost created another club in itself, bringing new members. It allows younger kids to come and try the environment and get a feel for it without being scared off by a bigger track.
How long have you been a coach at Goulburn Valley Junior Motorcycle Club?
I’ve been a Level 1 Coach for nine years.
What have been some of the challenges you’ve had to face while coaching?
The main challenge that I have had while coaching would be the parents. I don’t like seeing pushy parents, it makes it hard for the kids to enjoy the sport and learn. Kids won’t learn unless they want to! In saying that, I do like seeing when the youngsters are having fun week-in-week-out at the races with their parents.
How would you describe your style of coaching?
I would describe my style of coaching as very raw. I try and keep it simple and focus on technique a lot and letting the speed build from there.
What do you enjoy most about coaching?
The thing I enjoy most about coaching is seeing when a riders time and dedication towards their technique pays off and they start to find a good flow on the motorcycle. Seeing that reaction is really rewarding.
What could someone expect to find themselves doing when they come to the Goulburn Valley Junior Motorcycle Club and participate in a Coaching Day?
If you were to come to one of my coaching days at GVJMCC you could find yourself doing anything from the basics of bike setup and riding a bike to learning and practicing the same techniques the pros use.
As a Club Coach, how do you make members feel welcome at Goulburn Valley Junior Motorcycle Club?
As a coach at GVJMCC I try to make members welcome by being as approachable as possible and chatting to the younger kids to try and promote a good family environment.