STAWELL - CKS Swifts coach Paul Hanns was awarded Wimmera Mallee Coaches Association Senior Coach of the Year for 2012.
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Hanns was recognised by the WMCA for his achievements both on and off the field as leader of the Baggies over the 2011-12 seasons.
The midfielder was nominated by the club and from there, went through a selection process.
Wimmera Region Development Manager, Geoff Burdett, said the winner is not always chosen by how many premierships the coach has won because success is not always judged by premierships.
"'Hannsy' has done a great job for a young guy. I thought he deserved it," Mr Burdett said.
Taken into consideration was Hanns' attitude to the club with training, with Mr Burdett praising the Swifts leader for trying to get the best out of everyone.
"He comes with a bit of a package-type set up - he makes a difference at the club, is passionate about football after playing in the TAC Cup with the Rebels as well as playing and coaching with Stawell Warriors before crossing over to Swifts," he said.
"Playing at all different levels, he has picked up a lot of knowledge and is always keen to learn."
Mr Burdett was impressed with Hanns' focus on discipline at the club.
"He leads by example on and off the field. Also, taking Swifts to two preliminary finals over the past two years is a credit to him. He's dealing with a lot of different people and he has been good for them (Swifts) and good for the region," Mr Burdett said.
Swifts president Robert Carey was thrilled by Hanns' latest achievement, saying he has lifted the club to be 'a fair dinkum competitor for the grand final.'
"It is quite an outstanding achievement and he has been such a turnaround for our club," Mr Carey said.
"Paul seems to be able to able to rally people around him. He's a very good people's person and the committee and players are right behind him."