Sparks nominated for USOC award

USA Cycling-licensed and certified coach Andy Sparks is one of five finalists in the United States Olympic Committee's National Coach of the Year recognition program, the USOC has announced. The winner will be announced May 3 at the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports award luncheon in Washington, DC.

Sparks, a former elite track cyclist, guided Sarah Hammer through her comeback to the sport of cycling and coached her to a world title in the individual pursuit last year in Bordeaux, France, becoming the first elite women's world champion on the track in 11 years. In addition, Hammer won three national titles at the USA Cycling Elite Track National Championships, set a new national record and recorded five victories at UCI Track World Cup events.