A MAN who has done so much for rowing in Warrington and further afield has been awarded an honorary fellowship from Liverpool John Moores University.
Richard Sinnott, a coach, co-founder of Warrington Rowing Club and chief executive of All Aboard Youth Rowing, has been recognised for his “outstanding and dedicated contribution to grassroots sports for all.”
The fellowship is the highest honour awarded by LJMU, presented to individuals whose accomplishments align with the university’s values and who serve as role models to students and the community.
At a ceremony held at St George’s Hall, Liverpool, Dr Rebecca Murphy, director of the school of sport and exercise science at LJMU, celebrated Sinnott’s impressive achievements.
They include his 35-year coaching career - which has led to athletes winning medals at several Olympics and world championships - the establishment of Warrington Rowing Club in 1986, and his commitment to widening access to the sport via the charity All Aboard Youth Rowing – formerly named Warrington Youth Rowing.
“It’s an incredible privilege to be recognised for work that is so close to my heart,” said Sinnott, who celebrates his 64th birthday today.
“Bringing rowing to young people of all backgrounds has been very rewarding, and I’m deeply grateful for the support from LJMU and the community.”
Dr Murphy said: “Richard’s dedication to grassroots sports and youth empowerment is inspiring.
“His contributions to rowing and to our students’ development make him a true asset to the community and an outstanding role model.”
The contributions of Warrington's 'Mr Rowing' to grassroots sports are both broad and impactful.
Under his leadership, Warrington Rowing Club became the first in the UK to link state schools with rowing clubs, opening doors for students who might otherwise not have had the opportunity.
Since founding All Aboard Youth Rowing in 2016, he has expanded this mission, offering rowing programmes to 43 state secondary schools and providing life-changing experiences to more than 450 young people each week.
The charity has earned national recognition for enhancing life skills through sport and is a beacon for youth development in the region.
Beyond his direct work with young athletes, Sinnott has collaborated closely with LJMU, providing placement opportunities for over 100 students in sports and exercise science and participating in valuable research and knowledge exchange activities.
His commitment to rowing for all, regardless of background, has left an indelible mark on his community and beyond.
He received his award surrounded by his wife Sharon, family members, and friends from the rowing community.
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