The late Gwyn John

 Gwyn died in August 2016 at the age of 87

His ‘all round’ contribution to bowls coaching has, arguably, never been bettered.

For many years ( including during the 1990’s) he was in post as the National Director of Coaching of the English Bowls Coaching Scheme ( now ‘Coaches Society’). During that period – and along with his Wife, Mayville, who acted in a secretarial capacity for the Scheme – many hundreds of new and then current coaches benefitted greatly from his ( and the Coaching Team’s ) general guidance.

Gwyn was a true Professional – in ALL senses of the word – and visited bowls clubs all over the country ( along with the Coaching Team ) actively promoting bowls coaching on behalf of the main national governing bodies of the sport.

His approach to coaching was an  ‘all encompassing’ one. Bowlers of all levels of skill and competence profited significantly from his experience and knowledge. Many years spent as a headmaster in a school near Bude were a useful ‘background’ in this respect. Those years clearly enabled him to gain the necessary teaching skills and the ability to empathise with his ‘bowls pupils’.

Two books, authored by Gwyn, and covering all aspects of the sport of bowls and bowls coaching were published in the 1990’s

‘Flat Green Bowls – The Skills of the Game’ published by The Crowood Press Limited
AND ‘Skilful Bowls’ published by A and C Black Publishers Limited.  (These can still both be obtained, usually second-hand.)

Gwyn also played bowls skilfully – out of Bodmin ( indoors ) and Hatherleigh ( outdoors ) – reaching finals stages of National Competitions indoors.

His later years were affected by the need for constant dialysis BUT he continued to provide advice when asked.

Many current members of the The English Bowls Coaches Society will remember Gwyn with much respect, affection and appreciation.

Posted: Sep 14, 2016

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