FOR more than 50 years Tamworth's budding athletes have learnt from one of the most dedicated coaches around.
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Whether it be the shot put, the high jump or the 100 metres, all of the kids coached by Wally Warner have soaked in his expertise and positive attitude.
Throughout those 50-plus years Warner has expected the same thing in return: "Just a smile and a hand shake is all I ask."
Warner is not one to shine the spotlight on himself. So several parents of children he coaches have called for his efforts to be celebrated.
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John Wall is one such parent eager to celebrate Warner's impact.
"Wally has been an outstanding influence for so many local kids over so many years," Wall told the Leader.
"Wally gives all of his kids the same training, no matter their skill level or experience.
"He trains both able and non-able bodied athletes and often gets the best out of them."
Wall said Warner's coaching success rate was not to be underestimated.
"From what I understand, Wally is the only Tamworth coach to have helped an athlete to national titles in the 100, 200 and 800-metre events," he said.
"During his time coaching, he has travelled all over Australia to watch the kids he coaches compete.
"As well as that, once a week he takes all of the kids to McDonald's and shouts them a slushie as a reward for their efforts.
"In my opinion, he is a living legend of Tamworth."
A fellow parent, whose child is also coached by Warner, echoed Wall's sentiments - saying the mentor's "dedication to the children was phenomenal".
"We are so grateful Wally is a part of our community," the parent said.
"Wally has been coaching kids in our family for over 10 years and has never missed watching a carnival or ringing with a good-luck call the night before, and the morning of, those carnivals.
"The confidence level that grows in the kids within a few months is amazing to see."
In response to the applause, Warner was characteristically humble.
"I just love to coach the kids and I will keep doing it for nothing more than a smile and a handshake," he said.