PAUL
Head coach
I started swimming with Eckington at the age of seven. I progressed through the squads and competed at both county and national level. As a previous masters swimmer, I also swam for Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.
When I decided to start coaching, there was no doubt in my mind where this had to be – where it all started for me and where I enjoyed my swimming the most – Eckington Swimming Club! With the club’s ongoing support, I am a Swim England level 2 coach and currently lead our C Squad.
KAT
Coach
John
Coach
I am a Swim England level 2 coach and have been involved with the club since my children joined in 2009. I have coached all squads, but for the several years I have concentrated on our senior A squad. I am now the main D squad coach.
I am very proud to continue to coach swimmers to county, regional and national levels and to have also coached for Derbyshire ASA on their development programmes. I believe our role is to help all the swimmers to fulfil their potential.
DAN
Coach
I have always had a keen interest in swimming, and when a family member joined ESC, it re-ignited my passion for the sport. I joined the masters squad and started competing at some masters competitions.
I also wanted to give something back to the club and its brilliant swimmers, so I am now a fully qualified Swim England level 2 coach and am actively involved in coaching a range of club’s senior squads.
JO
Swim teacher and coach
I am an experienced, fully qualified Swim England level 2 teacher and a level 1 assistant coach. I previously successfully managed Chesterfield Swimming Club’s learn to swim programme, whilst continuing to teach and coach swimmers across a wide range of age and ability.
My background enables me to promote water safety whist developing a swimmer’s confidence and skills. I strongly believe that each swimmer is an individual, with unique requirements from the outset of their swimming journey through to wherever it takes them. I lead the club’s learn to swim programme, Transition squad and E squad.
PAT
Swim teacher and assistant coach
With the club’s support, I am a fully qualified Swim England level 1 assistant coach. I come from a competitive swimming background, having competed at county and national level for a club in Sheffield and another based in Anglesey, North Wales. I have also competed throughout the UK and Europe, twice in Germany, prior to retiring due to injury.
I have worked as a swimming teacher, lifeguard trainer and lifesaving teacher, and have been recognised for my service with an award from the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK). As a youth worker and teacher, I have always enjoyed helping young people throughout my career. At ESC, I hope to encourage all swimmers to achieve their goals, in a positive environment for progression.
CHRIS
Land training coach
I began my career at 18 as a strength and development coach, qualifying with the British Amateur Weightlifting Association at Bisham Abbey, home of the GB Powerlifting Team.
Later, I earned my level 3 personal training certification and co-founded a gym with my wife, working for nearly a decade with clients of all ages in one-on-one and group settings. I also competed nationally in bodybuilding and coached both men and women to the stage.
As a father of two club members and inspired by ESC’s positive environment, I was proud to join the team and support its young athletes’ fitness and personal growth.