The Gunnedah tennis coach was in elite company at the national awards where Aussie number two-seed, Nick Kyrgios, was presented with the John Newcombe Medal as Australia’s most outstanding tennis player in 2014.

Craig was honoured to receive the coaching award and even a little shocked by his selection.

“It’s unbelievable (to win), I didn’t really think I’d be selected,” he told waiting media post-presentation.

“We just wanted to let Tennis Australia and Tennis NSW know how much tennis we are doing out in our area, so this is just a bonus. 

“We love playing our tennis in our region and the kids are improving and loving it. 

“Just to be here was fantastic but to win this is amazing, I really didn’t expect it.”

Prior to Craig being named as the 2014 winner, the audience was presented with a small showreel of each award nominee coaching at their home club.

The narration on Craig’s profile detailed his versatility as a coach, how he instructs beginners from as young as four years of age to the elite.

The presentation continued: “Craig not only teaches form and technique but is leading the way in mental toughness and tactical play”.

But for Craig, none of what he has achieved would have been possible without the support of the Gunnedah Tennis Club, its members and of course his students.

“It’s our love for the game and that’s what we’re trying to teach the kids at that club level, to really enjoy it, get a passion for it and performances are coming through that, with the dedication of the kids, the dedication of the staff and club itself. It’s a whole club that brings it all together .”

When asked about his highlights, Craig said seeing the kids improve was by far the biggest reward.

“Seeing the kids achieve their goals we set is a real highlight and to see the kids develop as a whole not just as a tennis player but as a person with a great work ethic, manners and courtesy.”