Blackpool Stanley praise coach for his work with the club’s juniors.

Blackpool Stanley U14 coach Andy Garnett is on a shortlist to be named as coach of the year in the RFL’s 2026 Community Volunteer Awards.

Garnett joins Barry Barton (Haresfinch) and Kieron Hammond (Woodlands Warriors) on a three-man list for the prize.

Members of the RFL Community Game Strategic Advisory Group - formerly the RFL Community Board - will cast their vote to determine the winners with nine awards in all to be handed out.

Paying tribute to Garnett, a club spokesman said: “Andy stepped into the role of coach when our previous coach left unexpectedly.

“At a time when our team could easily have fallen apart, Andy made one simple promise that he would never let the lads down, staying true to this day.

“Coaching has never been just about rugby for Andy, consistently putting the needs of the team before his own, often sacrificing valuable time with his own family to ensure the boys always had someone to lead, encourage and believe in them.

“In June 2024 Andy suffered a serious injury, tearing his bicep, requiring surgery. Despite living in pain, facing an uncertain future, losing his job because of his injury and struggling with the impact this had on his mental health, he never stopped showing up for the team.

“He continued to coach, support and inspire the players when many others would understandably step away. His resilience and dedication have been nothing short of remarkable.

“Our team is made up of boys from a wide range of backgrounds, with many of them not having had the opportunity of playing rugby league if it wasn’t for Andy.

“Every single child is treated with the same kindness, patience and respect that he shows his own children, creating an environment where every player feels valued, included and safe.

“As a small club in an area where rugby league is not widely played, recruiting players is a constant challenge but Andy has worked tirelessly to grow the game by organising recruitment drives, visiting local communities and encouraging young people to give rugby league a chance.

“His commitment to developing youth rugby extends far beyond our own team.

“Andy doesn’t just coach rugby he changes lives. He teaches resilience, respect, teamwork and belief, inspiring young people to be better both on and off the field, often without seeking recognition for the countless hours he gives voluntarily with his unwavering commitment, compassion and outstanding dedication to every child he coaches, whatever age.”

In addition to the coach of the year honour, there will also be winners in the following categories: volunteer of the year; junior coach of the year; women and girls champion; grounds person of the year; social RL volunteer of the year; ‘Our League Life’ award; ‘Tackle It’ award; and community club of the year.

The winners will be formally announced at the end of October and the awards presented at club events throughout the autumn.

Those who are victorious will also be invited to the Betfred Super League Grand Final.