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Presentation address by Patrick Craig.

Chancellor,    

It is often the athletes who stand on podiums, medals glinting in the spotlight, who receive the acclaim. But behind every champion is a visionary – someone who sees potential before it is realised, who nurtures talent with quiet determination and unwavering belief. Jack Maitland is one such individual.

A modest and private man, Jack has never sought the limelight. Yet his impact on the world of triathlon, on the city of Leeds, and on generations of student athletes is nothing short of extraordinary.

Prior to a career in coaching, Jack was an accomplished athlete in his own right, excelling in orienteering and fell running, before turning his focus to triathlon. He competed internationally in all three of these sports, including when he was studying here at Leeds for his postgraduate course in teacher training. 

In 2001, Jack established a North of England Talent ID programme for triathlon and what followed was a total transformation of the sport. From a modest programme of just six university athletes, the Leeds Triathlon Centre emerged – a world-leading performance environment that has produced multiple world champions and Olympic medallists – including the iconic Brownlee brothers, Non Stanford, Vicky Holland and Beth Potter. His vision was clear from the outset: to make Leeds the global epicentre of triathlon excellence. His commitment to dual career student-athletes, equally as important. He delivered on both.

But Jack’s impact reaches even further. He was instrumental in bringing the prestigious World Triathlon Championship Series to Leeds – an event that brought thousands to the streets to cheer their local heroes and an achievement that elevated the city’s global sporting profile. His leadership was also pivotal in securing funding for the Brownlee Centre, transforming a dilapidated pavilion into a world-class training facility and national centre for triathlon. This centre now stands as a beacon of excellence for the University, the city, and the nation.

Jack Maitland has never sought recognition. But today, we shine a light on his remarkable contributions. He has shaped champions, transformed lives, and helped put Leeds on the world sporting map.

Chancellor, I am honoured to present to you for the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, Jack Maitland.