Lee Alcock - Waikato Volunteer Coach of the Year

ARIA SQUASH CLUB is beaming with pride as Lee, our club secretary and coach, has been named the Waikato Volunteer Coach of the Year. Lee received the award at the Waikato Squash Awards on Friday, November 7.

This well-deserved recognition celebrates Lee’s extraordinary dedication, leadership, and impact on junior squash development in our rural club. Lee’s coaching style is both innovative and deeply personalised. She tailors sessions to meet individual needs, making squash enjoyable and accessible for children of all skill levels.

Her commitment to professional development is equally inspiring — Lee completed formal coach training to deliver the Squash Stars programme and co-facilitated it with another club member, fostering a culture of shared learning and confidence. Over the past year, Lee has contributed more than 50 volunteer coaching hours, running structured junior sessions, supporting players in the Waikato Junior Interclub series, and accompanying them to competitions.

Notably, she does all this without having children in the programme herself — a testament to her genuine passion for the sport.

Lee’s impact goes far beyond the court. She embodies the spirit of community sport — empowering young athletes, inspiring fellow volunteers, and building pathways for future success. Her recognition as Coach of the Year is not just a personal accolade, but a celebration of what’s possible when passion meets purpose.

We’re proud to call her ours.Congratulations, Lee