BENDIGO’S Pam Dawkins was judged No.1 among more than 2000 coaches to be named best community coach in Victoria.The award highlights best practice and recognises the outstanding achievement in coaching within the Australian Sports Commission’s Active After-School Communities program.“I’m really honoured to receive the award,” Dawkins said.“The AASC program has provided me with the opportunity to share my passion for sport with children throughout central Victoria. For one hour per day I have an opportunity to coach and inspire children in physical activities.“Our AASC programs develop fitness and encourage teamwork in a fun environment.“There are no winners or losers. Participating in the activity is celebrated. Where else can you have that much fun and interaction with children,” she said.Without the program, more than 90 per cent of participating children would not be engaged in structured physical activity after school.AASC regional co-ordinator in Bendigo, Drew Cathcart said: “We have a high number of quality coaches in our program, and this award is one way of recognising coaches like Pam who really inspire the children to make physical activity an ongoing part of their life.“Pam is everything a community coach should be. “Her enthusiasm is infectious and she has a genuine passion for getting kids active. “Nothing is too much trouble for her, and she is never seen without a smile on her face.”