Monday to Friday I’ll wake up at 4.30am coach from 5.30am to 7:30am and then go back home to look after my two year old son. In the afternoon I work on admin for the club and then return back to coaching at 4pm to 7pm. I also work on Saturdays and work 6am to 9am.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
You need to be adaptable, have good communicational skills and a willingness to learn from others around you.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I never planned to be a swimming coach, however after finishing my education on the Island, I worked at Le Mourier Swimming School where I learnt the fundamentals of swimming. From there, I moved into coaching at Tigers as a volunteer until a position became available and I took the opportunity to become a full-time swimming coach.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
I gain a real sense of achievement seeing young swimmers work hard to achieve their dream goals, no matter how big or small those dreams may be. Being part of that journey is always rewarding. Obviously I enjoy the competition side of the sport and being at international and national events, it is great fun!
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
The unsocial hours and the time spent away from family is always hard, but I’m sure that’s true of many jobs.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I did my ASA Level 1 and 2 Teachers Course as a teenager and I’m currently finishing my Level 3 Coaches’ Badge. I’m also a NPLQ Lifeguard.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
For me if someone is thinking of getting into the world of coaching, go and volunteer at a club and see what it’s all about, and the work it requires. Gain that experience early and get a taste of the satisfaction you get from helping local kids go further in their chosen sport.
