During his tenure with Paddle Scotland, the organisation has developed immensely, with membership increasing by 40%, coaching members increasing by over 60%, and the dedicated staff team doubling in size. The coaching and leadership community in Scotland has flourished and gained significant recognition, as standards were elevated and opportunities and support increased. More recently, Andy has been pivotal in the development of Paddle Scotland’s ‘Paddlesport for All’ strategy, as well as establishing a robust safeguarding policy while in his role as Lead Safeguarding Officer. Andy’s expertise and knowledge has been invaluable to many across the organisation, embedding him firmly in the community and gaining him the respect of colleagues and volunteers alike.

Commenting on his forthcoming departure, Andy said “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Paddle Scotland and feel incredibly privileged to have worked alongside so many dedicated and passionate people including staff, volunteers, coaches and course providers. I am immensely proud of the contribution the team has made to the organisation, especially in relation to safeguarding, equality, coaching and volunteering. I wish the entire paddling community in Scotland all the very best for the future.”

After 14 years, Development Manager Lara Cooper will also be leaving Paddle Scotland in the spring/summer. Lara has been the driving force behind Paddle Scotland’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, leading to the achievement of the Advanced Level of Equality Standard for Sport in early 2023. In her role supporting the coaching and provider network she has ensured high standards across the delivery of British Canoeing Awarding Body qualifications, and supported countless coaches, leaders, and providers in their progression. Lara has also been on the Scottish Women’s Paddle Symposium (SWPS) organising committee for many years and has helped develop the event into the largest female paddling event in the UK. From competing in slalom in her youth, followed by white water and sea kayaking, coaching slalom in Wales and being the English Coaching Manager prior to moving to Scotland, Lara has been at the forefront of many aspects of our sport and has earned the trust and confidence of countless paddlers across our diverse communities.

Lara commented, “After 14 incredible years with Paddle Scotland, I’ve decided it’s time for a new chapter. It’s been an absolute privilege to work alongside such a friendly, passionate and dedicated network of paddlers, coaches, volunteers, providers and colleagues, and I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved together. This role has been immensely rewarding, but it now feels like the right time to focus on a lifestyle with less stress and more time for adventures. I remain committed to supporting a smooth transition and look forward to staying connected with the amazing friends I’ve made along the way.”

We are sure the Paddle Scotland community joins us in sincerely thanking both Andy and Lara for their tremendous contributions to our sport over the last two decades. We wish them both all the best for the future.

Work will now commence to recruit new talent to the Paddle Scotland staff team. The appointment of an Interim CEO is currently being finalised and will be announced early next week.