LIFE MEMBERSHIP – Dennis Coker

30 April 2023

LIFE MEMBERSHIP – Dennis Coker

One of the most humble technical officials in NSW, Dennis Coker, was last night presented Life Membership at the Athletics NSW Awards.

This year marks a staggering 29 years since Dennis Coker started officiating with Athletics NSW. Commencing nearly three decades ago in 1994 Dennis’ service continues to today, officiating at both of the recent Australian Championships in Brisbane. Over the decades, Dennis’ primary roles have been Referee, Field Judge, Call Room Chief/Manager and Post Event Manager.

He officiated at his first International meet in 2000, at the Sydney Olympics and Paralympics. Over the next two decades he has been a technical official at two Commonwealth Games (2006 & 2018), the IAAF Grand Prix final (2001), 2011 World Para Athletics Championships, 2001 Goodwill Games, INVICTUS Games, World Masters Games and Pacific School Games.

Dennis has worked extensively in the athletics community as a NSW Little Athletics zone and regional coordinator and provided extensive club administration with little athletics and Athletics NSW clubs.

Dennis has for over 30 years been a successful race walking coach with his athletes continuing to win State medals and compete at National championships.

Away from the track, his community service is incredible as a Deputy Captain with the NSW Rural Fire Service for over 46 years. His role has included training fire crews and all types of fires from local grass to bush fires, search and rescue, storm and motor vehicle. It requires Dennis to be ‘on call 24/7’. During the terrible 2019 summer fires he was based for weeks in various country locations.

A prominent Athletics Australia official recently remarked that Dennis is so reliable, very unassuming and humble.

Thank you Dennis for a your enormous contribute to our Sport. He is awarded Athletics NSW Life Membership.

David Tarbotton for Athletics NSW

Images: Dennis Coker (courtesy of David Tarbotton)