Top award for Garvey coach Errol Lutton

Lutton received the award for his outstanding work with the Hillsborough side over the last year.

The local coach guided Lisnagarvey to the EYHL title in its inaugural season and also led them to win the EYHL Champions Trophy at the weekend against Banbridge.

The Club Performance Coach of the Year recognises the achievements of a coach working to develop emerging and talented performers from within club hockey.

Such is Lisnagarvey’s success that they have gone 18 games undefeated this season against the strongest opposition from across Ireland.

Errol has proven success both for players just entering the playing panel at 16/17 years of age as well as seasoned internationals including Lisnagarvey captain, Jonathan Bell, Michael Watt and Paul Gleghorne to name a few and all of which will be eyeing a spot on the Olympic squad bound for Rio in the coming months.

Speaking about his award, Errol commented: “I usually like to keep a low profile.

“It’s a reflection on how great the players are I have in front of me,” he said.

“When they pick up trophies it’s all good and well, they are out there playing, I’m not.

“But it’s a reflection of the work they have done and how well they carry out everything I ask them to do on the pitch.

“In each season there are lows and highs, thankfully this season has been mostly highs and has been successful.

“This is dedicated to the hard work the players put in.”

Chairman of Lisnagarvey Hockey Club, Mark Murray believes the success this season in the EYHL and Champions Trophy is down to Errol and his methods of improving the squad. He said: “The Lisnagarvey squad have moved to a different level even from the side that won the Ulster Premier league two seasons ago. This undeniable progress is down to Errol Lutton.

“Errol is an innovative and ground breaking coach and has created different tactical plans throughout the season depending on the nature of opposition which has been a key driver in a successful season for the club.

“The attention to detail and dedication Errol brings to the role of coach of the 1st XI is a testament to his character and desire to take Lisnagarvey to the next level!”

Due to their successes this season, Lisnagarvey will be enjoying European hockey next season and last featured in the Euro Hockey League during the 2012-13 season and with an abundance of talent in the squad will look to progress further in the years to come.