Katrina van Eyk is a Australian Swim Coaches and Teachers Association (ASCTA) qualified Swim Teacher, Bronze/Development level coach and presenter with experience in running rural swim schools, school swimming programs, a competitive swimming club and presenting ASCTA courses. In 2020 Katrina was announced as one of four Victorian finalists of the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award. Katrina believes mentoring holds a key role in not only developing us as Swim Teachers and Coaches but also enhancing our industry, The Aquatic Mentor podcast will bring aquatic professionals together to learn from the experiences of others while developing a united industry through support and education.
Hello and welcome to the Aquatic PD Podcast. I am your host Katrina van Eyk and it is great to be talking to you via a podcast again.As we are starting fresh with our rebrand, I wanted to take the opportunity to introduce myself and the podcast to the new listeners and update our loyal followers on what is new.
Podcast Episode – Jade EdmistoneWelcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk.In this episode I interview a highly accomplished swimmer who began to made headway in the sport at 16 years of age and is now an entrepreneur, an author, a motivational speaker, and a performance coach. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Jade Edmistone.Jade joined her local swimming club at the age of 8 where her natural affinity and love for the water developed. As a late bloomer it wasn't till the age of 16 that Jade started making headway in the sport but after the tragic loss of a close friend and her resilient battle with depression she quite at the age of 18. Two years on in 2002, aged 20 Jade set her sights on becoming the fastest women in the world and returned to the pool once again. With exceptional focus and drive, Jade's goal was achieved when she broke her first world record in 2004 becoming the fastest women every over the 50m backstroke.Jade continued her dominance over sprint breaststroke breaking 5 world records and winning 3 world titles between 2004 and 2006 before retiring in 2009.After a lengthy battle with serious mental illness issue since retirement Jade, a mother of two beautiful daughters had to fight her way back to health as she navigated her difficult transition from elite sport to normality. Sharing her story in a powerful book, Fish our of Water Jade now continues her passionate involvement in sport. Through today's episode Jade shares some insights into her career as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Jade's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes.If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comSo, let's dive in and find out more about Jade's journey in swimming. Jade Edmistone's Contact Information: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jade-edmistone-201965aa/Website: https://www.getoncore.com.au/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim Clinics Aquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Podcast Episode – Charlotte WoodsWelcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk.In this episode I interview an expert in personal branding and someone who enjoys focusing on athlete's and their sponsorship opportunities. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Charlotte Woods.Charlotte is passionate about elevating the athlete pathway through personal brand development. In her role as General Manager and content developer at The Brand Builders, she empowers athletes with the knowledge, skills and resources needed to confidently identify and activate their brand.She has personally mentored hundreds of professional and elite athletes in their brand development in Australia and around the globe. Charlotte combines strategy and a creative approach to help athletes identify their unique value and leverage their brand to achieve their vision and goals.With a Masters in writing and the co-author of The Athlete Brand, Charlotte designs and delivers Athlete Brand education programs for local and international sporting organisations.Through today's episode Charlotte shares some insights into her career as well as her thoughts on athlete sponsorship and where she see's swim schools can provide sponsorship opportunities for swimmers of all levels.Please share the hidden gems you find in Charlotte's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes.If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comSo, let's dive in and find out more about Charlotte's journey in swimming.Charlotte Wood's Contact Information: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-f-woods Website: www.thebrandbuilders.com.auKatrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim Clinics Aquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Podcast Episode – Tammy van Wisse Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk.In this episode, I interview an industry professional who has experienced marathon swimming in many environments from the open water to the Murray River. With her spirit of adventure, she has broken many records and achieved several amazing firsts. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Tammy van Wisse.Tammy is a master at setting and completing long-term goals with many of her swims covering long distances like her swim down the Murray River in Australia which covered 2438km and took 106 days to complete. In 2006 Tammy followed in the footsteps of her idol Gertrude Jacobs and swam 35 miles from New York City to Sandy Hook breaking Gertrude's 81-year-old record with a time of 5 hours and 6 minutes. Tammy shared her passion for open water swimming with her brother John and in 1994 they were the first brother/sister combination to swim the English Channel with John completing the swim in 8 hours and 17 minutes and Tammy completing the swim in 8 hours and 32 minutes. Throughout her amazing career in swimming, Tammy has advocated for environmental awareness around waterways and now shares her impactful story with others in her motivational talks. Through today's episode, Tammy shares some insights into her career as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she thinks swimming is moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Tammy's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes.If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comSo, let's dive in and find out more about Tammy's journey in swimming. Tammy van Wisse Contact Information:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammy-van-wisse-22680052/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Season 3 Podcast Episode 2 – Joy Symons Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has experienced swimming in many environments from the pool to open water and swimming in ice water. Swimming in these ever-changing environments has given her the opportunity to learn more about the sport and more about herself and what it takes to get out of her comfort zone and succeed. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Joy Symons.Joy has over 20 years of international experience in the aquatic industry as an athlete, coach, teacher, presenter, company director and author. An Australian representative swimmer, Joy developed a successful learn to swim program for her company, Aqualification & Fitness, that prepares students for various aquatic sports as well as educates children and parents on water safety. She has written a water safety play for school children (Billabong Dreaming), a book for parents (Sink or Swim: Water Safety and Swimming Lessons Guide for Parents) and hosts a podcast for Swimming and Water Safety Teachers and Managers, called the Joy of Aquatics. This aquatic professional is also a Marathon and Ice swimmer. An inspirational leader in aquatics, Joy was the 2014 & 2019 Queensland Austswim Presenter of the year, 2019 National Austswim Presenter of the year, and was the first female President of the Central QLD Swimming Association. Through today's episode Joy shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Joy's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comSo, let's dive in and find out more about Joy's journey in swimming. Joy Symons Contact Information:Email: joy@aqualification.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joysymons/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/symons.joyPodcast: https://thejoyofaquatics.podbean.com/Ice Mile Article: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-06-29/joy-symons-rockhampton-swam-ice-mile-thredbo-for-40th-birthday/100249066Website: http://www.aqualification.com.au/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Podcast Episode – Gary Barclay Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who after being told he was throwing his life away for pursuing a career in aquatics has now built a career and a business around swimming and is passionate about helping others in the industry whether that be Swim Teachers, coaches or swimmers achieve their full potential in the sport. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Gary Barclay.Gary has been involved in swimming all his life. From a national level competitive swimmer in the 80's Gary turned to coaching in 1990 and became one the most successful coaches of junior and age group swimmers over the next 12 years. Since then, Gary has focused on the administration and management of the sport of swimming as well as mentoring and developing swimming coaches and is actively involved at a Club, State and National level in both competitive swimming and in the management and growth of swim schools.Gary was CEO at Nunawading Swimming Club for 17 years and is now the General Manager Performance Pathways for Swimming Australia. Through today's episode Gary shares some insights into his work as well as his thoughts on swimming and where he see's swimming moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Gary's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all his contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comSo, let's dive in and find out more about Gary's journey in swimming. Gary Barclay's Contact Information:Email: admin@goldclassswimming.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyabarclay/ Website: https://www.goldclassswimming.com/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Jacqueline Cole Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk.In this episode I interview an industry professional who started her career in aquatics as a volunteer swim teacher and has now built a career through her 20 years working as a swim teacher. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Jacqueline Cole.Jacqueline started her career working with swimmers who suffer from Asthma, helping them grow and develop their lung capacity through swimming. After this program was shut down, she moved on to work with the Rainbow Club.The Rainbow Club is a network of social swimming clubs for children with a disability. With their unique Swim the Rainbow program, Rainbow Club offers a fun and safe community for children with a disability to have personalised swimming lessons catered to their needs.Jacqueline has spent 12 years teaching children with a disability in the Rainbow Club program and she is now their programs and quality manager.Through today's episode Jacqueline shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Jacqueline's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes.If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comI have launched a selection of master classes which cover a variety of topics relating to swim teaching and coaching at Regional Swim Clinics Training Academy.These courses can be found on my website: www.regionalswimclinics.com.au and by clicking on courses.All the courses are designed to be easy on your wallet and time while giving you a wealth of knowledge to take and implement in your next lesson or squad session.So, lets dive in and find out about Jacqueline's journey in swimming. Jacqueline Cole's Contact Information:Email: aquatics@myrainbowclub.org.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqueline-cole-a591a485/Website: https://www.myrainbowclub.org.au/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/End of Season 2 Another season has passed, and I would like to thank all my amazing guests.My guests shared so much wonderful knowledge and ideas that I hope will encourage you all to try something new this coming year.I look forward to interviewing the guests I have lined up for you next year and if you know of a great contributor to the aquatic industry that you would like to learn more about, please let me know and encourage them to get in contact at regionalswimclinics@outlook.com so I can share their journey in swimming on a podcast episode.I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and I look forward to joining you in the New Year for more great stories and journeys in aquatics.Keep an eye out on the Aquatic Mentors Facebook page for news and celebrations during the break.Thank you all for listening to the episodes and sharing your thoughts on guests' stories and ideas. Your time and comments make the journey of the Aquatic Mentors podcast so much more fun and worthwhile.Join me next year for season 3 of the Aquatic Mentors Podcast.
Sarah Podesta Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has been involved in the aquatic industry from a young age when her parents sparked her interest in swimming giving her the goal to complete the levels at her local swim school before being able to swim in their home pool by herself. She continues to make a big impact on the industry. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Sarah Podesta.Sarah started out her Aquatics and Leisure career in local government venues where she worked at Mornington Peninsula Shire Council for 9 years followed by 4 years at the City of Monash, in Aquatic Program Co-ordinator roles before moving to Belgravia Leisure as the Aquatics Services Manager, at WaterMarc. Her current role is the State Aquatics Manager VIC/TAS, providing leadership and support to Belgravia Leisure's 18 year-round Aquatic Venues and programs of which there is over 18,000 students in Learn to Swim.She is also as an active member of Belgravia's National Aquatics Leadership Group, the Victorian Aquatic Industry Alliance and Play it Safe by the Water Committee. Contributing towards the effort to reduce fatal and non-fatal drownings, along with wanting everyone to enjoy Australia's beaches and swimming culture drives her passion for the industry.Sarah believes our industry should work towards enhancing the industry profile to be further recognised and prioritised by Government and Community, through promoting careers as well as the linking what we do (swimming lessons) in effort to reduce drowning statistics. Through today's episode Sarah shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Sarah's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comI have launched a selection of master classes which cover a variety of topics relating to swim teaching and coaching at Regional Swim Clinics Training Academy.These courses can be found on my website: www.regionalswimclinics.com.au and by clicking on courses.All the courses are designed to be easy on your wallet and time while giving you a wealth of knowledge to take and implement in your next lesson or squad session.So, lets dive in and find out about Sarah's journey in swimming. Sarah Podesta's Contact Information:Email: spodesta@belgravialeisure.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-podesta-329b367a/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Karen Baildon Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has spent her whole life in the aquatic industry and has been sounded by swimming greats since birth. My guest is the daughter of an Olympic champion and a lifetime swim coach, she was named after an Australian distance swimmer, and she is married to another swimming legend. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Karen Baildon.Karen grew up at the Palm Beach Olympic pool walking the deck with her mother who coached the squad kids and her father Sprint Champion and Gold medalist at the Mexico Olympic games for the 100 and 200m freestyle. She helped her mother coach teaching butterfly to the other swimmers when she was 8 years old.She won state medals as an age group swimmer while also training in ballet. The pool eventually won, drawing her back into the water where she has built an amazing career and legacy. Karen married Commonwealth champion Andrew Baildon and when Andrew retired from competing on Australian Teams for 10 years in 1996, they opened their first swim school at 24 years old. They now run 5 privately owned indoor facilities in South East Queensland and this year celebrate 25 years of the Superfish swim schools.The husband-and-wife team are very hands on with their facilities and love to be involved with everything from construction, marketing, building, and training their team to the front desk and even scrubbing the change rooms.After a big health scare in 2011 Karen has had to rebuild her strength and fitness and prides herself on what she has been able to achieve. Through today's episode Karen shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Karen's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comI have launched a selection of master classes which cover a variety of topics relating to swim teaching and coaching at Regional Swim Clinics Training Academy.These courses can be found on my website: www.regionalswimclinics.com.au and by clicking on courses.All the courses are designed to be easy on your wallet and time while giving you a wealth of knowledge to take and implement in your next lesson or squad session.So, lets dive in and find out about Karen's journey in swimming. Karen Baildon's Contact Information:Email: karen@baildongroup.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenbaildon/Website: www.superfish.com.au Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Karen Baildon Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has spent her whole life in the aquatic industry and has been sounded by swimming greats since birth. My guest is the daughter of an Olympic champion and a lifetime swim coach, she was named after an Australian distance swimmer, and she is married to another swimming legend. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Karen Baildon.Karen grew up at the Palm Beach Olympic pool walking the deck with her mother who coached the squad kids and her father Sprint Champion and Gold medalist at the Mexico Olympic games for the 100 and 200m freestyle. She helped her mother coach teaching butterfly to the other swimmers when she was 8 years old.She won state medals as an age group swimmer while also training in ballet. The pool eventually won, drawing her back into the water where she has built an amazing career and legacy. Karen married Commonwealth champion Andrew Baildon and when Andrew retired from competing on Australian Teams for 10 years in 1996, they opened their first swim school at 24 years old. They now run 5 privately owned indoor facilities in South East Queensland and this year celebrate 25 years of the Superfish swim schools.The husband-and-wife team are very hands on with their facilities and love to be involved with everything from construction, marketing, building, and training their team to the front desk and even scrubbing the change rooms.After a big health scare in 2011 Karen has had to rebuild her strength and fitness and prides herself on what she has been able to achieve. Through today's episode Karen shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Karen's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comI have launched a selection of master classes which cover a variety of topics relating to swim teaching and coaching at Regional Swim Clinics Training Academy.These courses can be found on my website: www.regionalswimclinics.com.au and by clicking on courses.All the courses are designed to be easy on your wallet and time while giving you a wealth of knowledge to take and implement in your next lesson or squad session.So, lets dive in and find out about Karen's journey in swimming. Karen Baildon's Contact Information:Email: karen@baildongroup.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenbaildon/Website: www.superfish.com.au Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Angela Wild Part 2 Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I continue my interview with the swim teacher, fitness instructor and Tiktok star, Angela Wild.Angela talks about the influences and mentors who have helped her along her journey and the way she targets audiences through her Tiktok videos.She also shares her dream for the aquatic industry to come together and work towards the goal of water safety and drowning prevention in a more unified way.I am excited to announce that my passion project, Regional Swim Clinics Training Academy is ready to launch.At Regional Swim Clinics Training Academy I offer masterclasses which complement your development into the great swim teacher or coach you know you are.All of the courses are designed to be easy on your wallet and time while giving you a wealth of knowledge to take and implement in your next lesson or squad session.Each course covers a new specialised topic that enhances your teaching and coaching skills, inspiring you and your swimmers to achieve your best.Every quarter I will be adding new courses so keep popping back to find out what specialised topics you can learn more about.Please share the hidden gems you find in Angela's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comCheck out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook.So, let's dive in and find out more about Angela's journey in swimming. Angela Wild's Contact Information:Tiktok: elemental_aquaticsEmail: elementalswimsd@gmail.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-wild-3ba24640/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElementalAquatics, https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100017146245612Website: http://www.elementalsd.com/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Angela Wild - Part 1 Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who started in the fitness industry covering personal training and water aerobics and then found her passion in aquatics where she has now reached over 20 years of swim teaching. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Angela Wild.Angela started her career in the fitness industry working with clients as a personal trainer and a water aerobics instructor. Clients saw her skills working with people in the water and began to ask her to teach their children. The seed of interest grew, and Angela investigated her options and became a swim teacher.During her time managing swim schools and working as a swim teacher Angela completed a Bachelor and Master of Arts in Kinesiology, Fitness, and other connected qualifications. In 2017 Angela took the skills she had developed working in and around the industry and opened her own swim school called Elemental Aquatics and over 4 years later is still going strong.Angela advocates for drowning prevention and active lifestyles for children and took the plunge onto Tiktok videos sharing her aquatic knowledge and drowning prevention to a new audience and in a very creative way. She uses her Tiktok videos to connect with other aquatic professionals, parents of swimmers, and hopes to use her videos to inspire and mentor the younger generation into the aquatics industry.As Angela has such a wealth of knowledge, we couldn't contain the interview into one episode, so it has been expanded into a two week feature so remember to look out for next week's episode where I continue the conversation with Angela Wild.Through today's episode Angela shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Angela's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comCheck out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook.So, let's dive in and find out more about Angela's journey in swimming. Angela Wild's Contact Information:Tiktok: elemental_aquaticsEmail: elementalswimsd@gmail.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-wild-3ba24640/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElementalAquatics, https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100017146245612Website: http://www.elementalsd.com/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Juanita Farrell Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has been involved in HR and Leadership management for the Paul Sadler franchise over the last 11 years. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Juanita Farrell.Juanita started her journey in swimming while facilitating conferences for the Paul Sadler swim school staff. She drew on her background in training and development which she developed while working in her roles through Flight Centre and other businesses.When a People and Culture role was advertised in the Paul Sadler franchise Juanita took the chance to apply and received the role giving her the opportunity to expand on her leadership skills. This role began as a part time giving her a taste of the industry before she progressed in the business to a full-time role as the HR and Leadership manager.During her time in the role Juanita has inspired leaders from the franchise to learn more about their skills and how to develop a great team of people around them who are engaged in their work. Juanita's highlights in the industry include running two conferences for the Paul Sadler management teams in 2018 and 2019 titled Legacy and Powerful Leadership Lessons Learnt from Tribes. In both conferences Juanita and other presenters researched and facilitated activities which would develop those attending the conference's and leave a lasting legacy in the Paul Sadler network. She enjoys focusing on self-improvement and understands that our industry is not one that stagnates and that we always need to be developing new and interesting ways to improve the industry and make it more attractive to the public while continually improving ourselves along the way.Through today's episode Juanita shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Juanita's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comCheck out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook.So, let's dive in and find out more about Juanita's journey in swimming. Juanita Farrell's Contact Information:Email: gm.hr@paulsadlerswimland.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juanita-farrell-24b231153/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Cherry Smith Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has been officiating swim meets in NSW since 1994. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Cherry Smith.Cherry picked up a stopwatch at her daughters first come and try swim meet at the Peakhurst ASC swimming club in 1994 and has not looked back since then.After her children moved on from swimming Cherry continued to volunteer her time officiating meets building her experience and knowledge in the technical side of swimming.Cherry has been given the opportunity to officiate at major events like the Olympics, Paralympics, and Commonwealth Games during her 8-year term as a FINA technical official and remembers seeing some of the Australian Olympic and Paralympic swimmers she has officiated compete at their first swim meet when they were young.For the future of officiating swimming Cherry see's an interesting future entwined with technology and looks forward to a hybrid system where the technology assists us to run a fair and efficient swim meet. Cheery shares her thoughts on the coach/official relationship and explains that the officials are there to keep the swim meet fare and emphasizes that the officials are not out to get swimmers. They enjoy watching swimmers achieve PD and race goals.Chlorine is in her blood and even though Cherry's term as a FINA technical official has come to an end and she has stepped down from the technical official's board she looks forward to continuing her walks along pool deck and hopes to give back to the industry by mentoring and supporting new officials and by sharing her knowledge and skills.Through today's episode Cherry shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Cherry's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comCheck out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook.So, let's dive in and find out more about Cherry's journey in swimming. Cherry Smith's Contact Information:Email: cherrysmith52@outlook.com Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Hannah Watkins Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has followed her family's tradition into aquatics and has been involved in both the learn to swim and coaching sides of aquatics in two different countries. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Hannah Watkins.Hannah started her career early in aquatics following the family tradition of swimming, competition and then teaching others to swim. She started her aquatics career in Wales before moving to the warmer climate of Australia with her husband and family. During her years of study Hanna has completed a Degree in Sport and Health Science and a Masters in Education completing the latter while pregnant and finishing when her daughter was still a baby.Hannah and her husband Simon moved to regional NSW to retire and ended up starting their own swim school called Swim am byth. Swim am byth now runs in 9 aquatic facilities covering 3 states. She prides herself on the work she does behind the scenes and enjoys converting swim schools from low performing facilities to high performing, buzzing environments where the swimmers, their families and her staff are all valued and seen for the person they are.Hannah shares her knowledge about the Great Britain swim teaching qualification which promotes consistency through the industry allowing easy movement of staff and swimmers between programs. She also shares how her daughter and husband are her driving forces and looks forward to seeing her daughter Skye grow and develop her confidence in the water.Through today's episode Hannah shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Hannah's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comCheck out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook.So, let's dive in and find out more about Hannah's journey in swimming. Hannah Watkins's Contact Information:Email: admin@swimambyth.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HannahWatkinsFacebook: Swim am bythWebsite: www.swimambyth.com.au Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional with a highly successful 17-year career in swimming, a three-time Olympian, businessman, public personality and a motivation speaker so, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Michael Klim.Michael was always drawn to the pool and enjoyed learning to swim as a young child. He found the pool offered him stability and a community environment with a common language in his early life when his family moved around the world before finally settling in Australia.Michael's amazing swimming career saw him receive a total of six Olympic medals, break multiple world records and collect the title of World Swimmer of the Year. Today, this athlete turned businessman draws on his professional experience as World Champion to drive the success of his entrepreneurial ventures, including his swim school Klim Swim and his global, skincare brand MILK & Co amongst other ventures.Drawing on the knowledge and skills he learnt in swimming and with the help of other experienced aquatic professionals Michael opened Klim Swim Swim School with his family in 1997. Klim Swim has expended to 3 venues including Bail. Michael enjoys spending time in Bail with his 3 gorgeous children and shares his time between Bail and Australia.This year Michael was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame. While he still enjoys swimming in the pool, he has found a new passion in open water swimming with a 7-year involvement in the World Series Swim's which includes several open water swims around Australia. The events included in the World Series Swim's include beginner and advanced marathon swimmers. Michael enjoys connecting with charities and those in need and he has affiliations with charities including the Brainwave Foundation, the Polished Man Campaign and Eczema Association of Australia. His experience as a world champion in the pool guides his work in the corporate sector as a keynote speaker and through his personal development workshops and mentoring programs.Through today's episode Michael shares some insights into his work as well as his thoughts on swimming in Australia and where he see's swimming moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Michael's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all his contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comCheck out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook.So, let's jump in and find out more about Michael's journey in swimming. Michael Klim's Contact Information:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-klim-oam-b9342b7/Website: https://www.michaelklim.com/, https://www.klimswim.com/, https://milkandco.com.au/Email: info@klimswim.com, info@worldseriesswims.com.au Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Alina Graham Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk.In this episode I interview an industry professional who has been involved in both the learn to swim and coaching sides of aquatics and has spread the knowledge of aquatics across Queensland and many more countries. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Alina Graham.Alina has been involved with aquatics in some way since turning 16 and after a baptism of cold water she started working with her coach running the learn to swim connected with his program. Using the skills, she learnt Alina began training new swim teachers and worked part time in the education department.Alina had the ambition to become an Olympic swimming coach until the passing of a friend made her reassess what she wanted from her life. A short break from the industry helped her realise how much she missed the interaction and the achievements of her swimmers.With her wealth of knowledge Alina has been called on to advise and rewrite a number of aquatic courses and programs.Recovering from her own health scare Alina now runs the facility at Quilpie in outback Queensland. Alina enjoys bringing swimming lessons and other fun aquatic activities to her rural community and finds her community is highly engaged when it comes to aquatics.Through today's episode Alina shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Alina's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes.If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comCheck out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook.So, let's dive in and find out more about Alina's journey in swimming. Alina Graham's Contact Information:Email: quilpie@allaboutaquatics.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/AlinaGrahamFacebook: All About Aquatics – QuilpieWebsite: www.allaboutaquatics.com.au Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Shona Pallas Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk.In this episode I interview an industry professional who has been working in aquatics for several years gaining a variety of experience in her different roles. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Shona Pallas.Shona began her career in the aquatic industry while still in high school working at her local swim school for a week of work experience. That week had a massive impact on her, and she has built her career around aquatics ever since.Starting her career at a local swim school Shona then moved into the Paul Sadler franchise working at a local facility before purchasing her own facility with business partners at the age of 25. From then on Shona has had many roles in the Paul Sadler including a regional manager position, marketing manager and now the Director of Infant Fun and Safety.In her current role Shona had the opportunity to travel to Canada to study successful infant programs and she didn't let Covid stop her from researching infant programs in India and similar programs run locally. Shona used the information she found to rewrite and upgrade the Paul Sadler Infant program making sure all their lessons are run trauma free. Shona is a great example of how working in the aquatic industry can inspire someone to change their dream career and build a life in aquatics.Through today's episode Shona shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming moving to in the future.Please share the hidden gems you find in Shona's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes.If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.comCheck out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook.So, let's dive in and find out more about Shona's journey in swimming. Shona Pallas's Contact Information:Email: shona.pallas@paulsadlerswimland.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shona-pallas-2b8b5a123/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail – regionalswimclinics@outlook.comFacebook - Regional Swim ClinicsAquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has had a short career in the industry so far but has already made a big impact. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Lisa Griffin. Lisa took the plunge into her first Swim Teacher course 3 years ago after watching her daughters develop their swimming skills and recovering from a near drowning incident when she was young. Since then, Lisa hasn't stopped learning. She now holds the Swim Australia Swim Teacher, Babies and Toddlers, Competitive Swimming and a Water Aerobics qualification and is working towards two more qualifications. Lisa uses the wide knowledge she has gained from these courses to enhance her teaching skills. On top of all the study and lockdowns Lisa is a single mother of a very large family and is the career for her 2 lovely daughters with special needs. Lisa's daughters are her inspiration and she see's water as a therapy for not just her daughters but for everyone. Lisa has overcome so much I her life and works towards building a career around her daughters where she can fulfill the dreams and aspirations she has to become the super women she wants to be while lighting the path for her daughters to do the same. I look forward to seeing her grow and succeed in the aquatic industry, changing so many lives on her journey. Through today's episode Lisa shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share the hidden gems you find in Lisa's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Check out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook. So, let's jump in and find out more about Lisa's journey in swimming. Lisa Griffins's Contact Information: Email: lisagriffinphotos@outlook.com Facebook: Lisa Griffin Photography Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics Aquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Podcast Episode – Kerryn Prouse Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In today's episode I interview an industry professional who took the plunge into aquatics later in life, founding her passion and a business that continues to grow. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Kerryn Prouse. Kerryn started her swim school in 2014 in her backyard pool as a way of supporting her children through a gap year before they moved on to university. She had spent many years traveling Victoria taking her children to swim meets and while at boarding school her children had qualified as swim teachers so together, they opened Prouse Swim School. Their numbers grow quickly and Kerryn realised there was a market for swimming lessons in Horsham and the surrounding area and hired a local indoor motel pool to continue lessons over Winter while they invested in a heated pump and cover for their personal pool. Once updated they moved the swim school back to their home pool and now have 700 + swimmers attending lessons. Kerryn noticed that some of her swim school families were driving big distances to attend lessons, even traveling from across the border in South Australia. Taking the incitive Kerryn sourced another pool closer to the boarder and now has 200 + swimmers moving through that facility. Early this year Kerryn expanded into another rural pool where her staff teach another 100 swimmers. Kerryn shows you are never too old or young to find your passion and develop a business from hard work. Her passion is to share the water safety message and goes above and beyond for her clients. Through today's episode Kerryn shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming and water safety moving to in the future. Please share the hidden gems you find in Kerryn's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Check out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook. So, let's jump in and find out more about Kerryn's journey in swimming. Kerryn Prouse's Contact Information: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prouseswimmingschool Website: https://prouseswimschool.com.au/ Email: prouse@wimmera.com.au Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics Aquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Podcast Episode – Stephen Howell Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has forged his own path through swimming from a junior swimmer, to competing at the world transplant games and now inspiring regional swimming by coaching and organising clinics with high performance athletes. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Stephen Howell. Stephen showed his swimming skills early shinning as a talented school swimmer until he was diagnosed with kidney failure and moved on to dialysis to survive. After receiving a transplant Stephen come back to swimming with a blast and competed in the world transplant games among other transplant events. After noticing a lack of local swimming Stephen developed a passion to build swimming in Bathurst and across regional NSW. Starting his own business, Swim Better HQ, Stephen continues to make an impact regionally by hosting clinics and online events with high performance athletes to inspire NSW regional swimmers and coaches. Stephen wants to encourage change in the industry where promoting swimming is shared by all and supported by the governing bodies and regional swimming across Australia receives as many opportunities as their metro counterparts. His dream is to develop a regional hub in NSW which produces a number Olympic swimmers and expanding his clinics to regional areas throughout Australia. Through today's episode Stephen shares some insights into his work as well as his thoughts on swimming and where he see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share the hidden gems you find in Stephen's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all his contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Check out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook. So, let's jump in and find out more about Stephen's journey in swimming. Stephen Howell's Contact Information: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-howell-11424a21/ Website: swimbetterhq.com Email: coach@swimbetterhq.com Twitter: aussieswimcoach Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics Aquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview one of Australia's most iconic lifeguards who has been patrolling the NSW beaches and protecting swimmers for 30 years. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Bruce Hopkins. Bruce or Hoppo as he is more widely known is one of the world's most influential and recognised Lifeguards. He regularly graces our tv screens with his work on Bondi Rescue where he and his fellow lifeguards share a look into their work protecting and educating locals and tourists at Bondi Beach about water safety. As a respected water sportsman and competitor Hoppo has won two gold medals at the Australian Surf Life Saving titles, and as President of Surf Educators International he has travelled the world to educate on water safety. Bruce shares his extensive knowledge of water safety with the world through the Float to Survive campaign, encouraging people to learn the skill of floating to help save their life when in trouble in the water. With Bondi Rescue reaching such a wide audience and educating them on the importance of water safety Bruce saw an opportunity to bring this education to the children of Australia and now consults for the children's TV show – Kangaroo Beach. To top off all his amazing work Bruce has started his own podcast called ‘Life's a Beach'. In the podcast Bruce interview's special guests, share his personal journey and talks about the all-important frank discussions impacting himself, his friends, and the lives of his audience. Through today's episode Bruce shares some insights into his work as well as his thoughts on lifeguarding and swimming in Australia and where he see's swimming and water safety moving to in the future. Please share the hidden gems you find in Bruce's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all his contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Check out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook. So, let's jump in and find out more about Bruce's journey in swimming. Bruce Hopkins Contact Information: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bruce-hoppo-hopkins-17980763/ Podcast: https://www.lifesabeach.co/ Website: www.lifesabeach.co www.surfeducatorsinternational.com.au Email: brucehopkins@bondirescuehq.com Instagram: @lifeguardhoppoofficial @lifesabeachau @kangaroobeachofficial Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics Aquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Podcast Episode – Kelly Smart Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has made a big difference in her short time in the industry, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Kelly Smart. Kelly started her career in aquatics 8 years ago as the centre coordinator for the Lake's Entrance Aquadome in the East Gippsland Shire in regional Victoria. She came in knowing little about the industry but has built her knowledge very quickly by taking the opportunities that come her way. During the 2019 Victorian and NSW bushfires Kelly stood up and took on a crucial role running a second relief centre in town for those effected and displaced by the fires. Her management and aquatic skills played a vital role in her success of taking care of her staff and the community and the connections she made with local emergency services. Kelly shares how the skills she gained from her role in the fires and the experiences she had now shape the way her team deal with emergency training in the facility. She remembers how great it was to see the Aquadome staff coming together to help the town survive. They also worked together to help the neighbouring town of Orbost by helping the aquatic staff at the Orbost pool set the pool up ready for CFA to pump water from the facility which was to be used to fight the incoming fire front. Her experiences in the Christmas/New Year's bushfires has shown Kelly the importance of slowing down and taking the time to breath and access the situation. After dealing with the brunt of the bush fires Kelly had to jump into the role of Covid officer for the Shire using her connections and knowledge of emergency situations to deal with the shire's covid response. The skills learnt in the bush fires again played a big role in her response to covid within the community and with her staff. Kelly emphasised taking care of her staff's mental health and continued to connect and ask questions throughout the first lockdown and into subsequent lockdowns. Through today's episode Kelly shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming and where she see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share the hidden gems you find in Kelly's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Check out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook. So, let's jump in and find out more about Kelly's journey in swimming. Kelly Smart's Contact Information: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-smart-26a233170/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics Aquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Podcast Episode – Scott Wilson Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has had years of experience across all areas of aquatics so, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Scott Wilson. Scott tagged behind three older sisters when attending their swim squad sessions in Lower Hutt (New Zealand) during the 1960s. Simple play and water discovery in cold outdoor swimming pools became his playground each week while his siblings swam their sessions. In his youth years he developed his own swimming under the coaching eyes of Mr Laing (Duncan Laing) at the Moana Pool in Dunedin (NZL). A work ethic within a squad of like minded peers Scott found success in the NZL swim scene, winning national titles and representing NZL at different levels. Although not making the grade to swim at the pinnacle world meets, Scott appreciates the life lessons competitive swimming provided. Unsure with what to do after a single year of university, with uncertainty and zero swim teaching experience, Scott moved to Canberra working with Australian swim coach Bill Robertson learning ‘the trade' of swim coaching, swim teaching and swim school business. Burley Griffin Swim Club and the Deakin Health Spa Swim School created Scott's passion for the swimming industry. The sight of the red and yellow team uniform of BG became recognised throughout NSW and Australia as one of the leading clubs in this era. Scott's professional swimming pathway has now spanned 40 years embracing the scope of teacher, coach, swim school leader, swim school owner, private, council, industry presenter, mentor, program developer, single sites, multi sites, and everything in between. He has always been a learner from both within and from outside our industry. As the Teacher / Coach - how to improve, how to obtain results. As the business owner – he is a considered risk taker, a decision maker, with a strong belief in staff and customer focus to drive growth and retention. For a decade Scott held the role Head of Operations for multi-centre swim school organisations, Aquatic Achievers (Brisbane) and Carlile Swimming (Sydney) These days Scott has his own swim school business helping schools and other swimming professionals find success. “I now have a strong desire to give back to the wider industry which has been so good to me and so good for me.” To connect with Scott, jump on his website www.swimpeople.com.au. Through today's episode Scott shares some insights into his work as well as his thoughts on swimming in Australia and where he see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share the hidden gems you find in Scott's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all his contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Check out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook. So, let's jump in and find out more about Scott's journey in swimming. Scott Wilson's Contact Information: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-wilson-625615a5/ Website: www.swimpeople.com.au Email: scott@swimpeople.com.au Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics Aquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Podcast Episode – Wayne Goldsmith Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has had years of experience in the aquatics field as a coach, thought leader and global expert so, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Wayne Goldsmith. Wayne has worked with coaches, athletes, teams, and sporting organisations from 30 countries offering training on coaching development, peak performance, and leadership. After graduating from the University of Canberra with a Bachelor of Applied Science, Sports Science, Coaching and Sports Management Wayne went to work with Swimming Australia in 1993 as the Manager of Sports Science Sports Medicine. Wayne was able to connect with those in the sports science field and understand the advances they could offer sport and then convert those findings into easy-to-understand information for coaches on pool deck. Through his business, Moregold Performance Consulting Wayne has worked with many sporting organisations including Swimming Australia, Triathlon Australia, Australian Rugby Union, AFL Teams, British Swimming, KartSport New Zealand, N.R.L Teams and many more. Wayne is called on to audit and improve sporting organisations across the globe and has noticed a worldwide trend which is affecting the future of participation numbers in several sports. Through today's episode Wayne shares insights into his work as well as his thoughts on swimming and where he see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share the hidden gems you find in Wayne's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all his contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Check out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook. So, let's jump in and find out more about Wayne's journey in swimming. Wayne Goldsmith's Contact Information: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayne-goldsmith-coaching/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/sports-thoughts/id1451687616 Website: https://wgcoaching.com/ Email: wayne@waynegoldsmith.com Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics Aquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Podcast Episode – Josh Barila Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who is relatively fresh into the industry but is already making a big impact for swimming in country Victoria. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Josh Barila. Josh began his swimming career in the learn to swim environment where his parents helped him make the change into competitive swimming. His achievements to date in the pool include state level swims. At the young age of 13 Josh took on a coaching role with his local club in Mildura under the watchful eye of his learn to swim teacher and club coach Ben Talent. He has now moved to head coach and has dedicated his time to developing and expanding the club. Josh has now continued his strong relationship with his old coach and now works with him as a swim teacher for First Strokes Swim School in Mildura. In 2020 Josh took on the role as Manager of Programs with Sunraysia Academy of Sport allowing him to continue his role developing the Mildura Swimming Club and a number of other junior sporting clubs in the Mildura area by offering opportunities for their athletes to expand their knowledge and skills in their chosen sport. Josh has achieved a Diploma in Sport and his Development level coaching qualification through ASCTA and I believe he will make a massive impact on the world of swimming both here in Victoria and Australia wide as he grows and matures in the amazing sport. Through today's episode Josh shares some insights into his work as well as his thoughts on swimming in Australia and where he see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share the hidden gems you find in Josh's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all his contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Check out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for the Aquatic Mentors Season 1 Ebook. So, let's jump in and find out more about Josh's journey in swimming. Josh Barila's Contact Information: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-barila-3966161a7/ Work Email: mop@sunraysiaacademyofsport.com.au Personal Email: joshbarila@outlook.com Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics Aquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Podcast Episode – Brendan Keogh Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has had years of experience in the aquatics field as a coach and several achievements as a coach working with disabled swimmers so, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Brendan Keogh. Brendan began his swimming career in Vanuatu swimming laps of a popular bay with a sleeping coach and returned to Australia to be coached by his father becoming an National Age level swimmer. He then took on a coaching role and has been part of coach teams representing Australia through Para swimming since the 2000 Summer Paralympic Games in Sydney. In 2012 Brendan retired from international coaching after the London Paralympics and took on a management role at Genesis Christian College's Aquatic Centre. They couldn't keep Brendan away for long though and he returned to the international coaching team for the 2014 Para Pan Pacific Championship and the 2015 IPC Swimming World Championships and the 2016 Rio Paralympics. Brendan has now retired again from the international coaching stage to spend more time building a work/life balance between his family, friends and his work with the Genesis Aquatic Centre. Through today's episode Brendan shares some insights into his work as well as his thoughts on swimming in Australia and where he see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share the hidden gems you find in Brendan's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all his contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Check out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook. So, let's jump in and find out more about Brendan's journey in swimming. Brendan Keogh's Contact Information: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendan-keogh-6ba795133/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics Aquatic Mentors Ebook Link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Podcast Episode – Shannon Townsend Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has had years of experience in the aquatics field and brings her love for swimming and yoga together to build programs that encourage and calm young swimmers, so please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Shannon Townsend. Shannon took the jump into teaching swimming when she was 13 years old helping the local club. She then continued this baptism of fire by taking on the role of swim teacher for the younger primary school levels at her local school pool where she built a team around her and developed her own swim school at 18 years of age. Once graduating from school Shannon went on to study a Bachelor of Leisure Management and Applied Science in Movement and Business Management. During her career Shannon has had many diverse roles including an Activities Manager at two health resorts. She continued to participate in aquatic sports and shared her love for swimming with others. In 2010 she opened her own businesses called Sionna Lifestyle which is focused around facilitating team building workshops, team planning workshops and adding a spark of fun and enthusiasm to group work. Shannon also presents Swim Australia courses and Yoga. At the same time Shannon took on the role as Glennie Aquatics and Clive Berghofer Sports Centre Manager at Glennie School in Toowoomba. Shannon calls herself the Chief Excitement Office and has built her career around water, relaxation, adventure, and people. Fun and music are also in store when you spend time with Shannon. Her Ukulele is never far from her side, and we enjoy watching her strum a good tune around water safety at the conferences she attends. Through today's episode Shannon shares some insights into his work as well as her thoughts on swimming in Australia and where she see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share the hidden gems you find in Shannon's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Check out our website aquaticmentors.com.au for our Season 1 Ebook. So, let's jump in and find out more about Shannon's journey in swimming. Shannon Townsend's Contact Information: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-townsend-539819142/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics Ebook: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has had years of experience in the aquatics field as both a Para Swimmer and a diversity and inclusion expert so please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Matthew Haanappel. Matthew has had an amazing career in swimming representing Australia since 2010 collecting Paralympic Gold and Bronze at London 2012 Paralympic Games, World Championship Bronze at IPC World Championships in Montreal, Canada, 2013, 3x Gold, 2x Silver and Bronze at Paralympic Pan Pacific Championships, Los Angeles, USA, 2014 and competed at the Rio Paralympics 2016 and Gold Coast Commonwealth Games 2018. During his time in swimming Matthew has taken many paid and volunteer roles in management centring around diversity and inclusion. In his current role as Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator for the City of Monash Sports and Recreation Department Matthew has been one of the key players in developing a new program called ‘Integrated Practical Placement' for the purpose of giving people with a disability a place to develop workplace skills. Matthew has also used his skills to in conjunction with Swimmer Victoria put together the Diversity and Inclusion committee of which he is Chairperson. He dedicates his life to increasing the profile of Paralympic sport in Australia and the advocacy of people with disabilities and developing an environment where everyone has a fair go in sport. Matthew's interview was recorded some months back so please be aware that conversations in the interview will include topics that may have changed or be currently happening. Through today's episode Matt shares some insights into his work as well as his thoughts on swimming in Australia and where he see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share the hidden gems you find in Matt's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all his contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com So, let's jump in and find out more about Matt's journey in swimming. Matthew Haanappel's Contact Information: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-haanappel-oam-596093b8/ Email: haanappel.matthew.a@gmail.com Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics Ebook link: https://www.regionalswimclinics.com.au/top-10-tips-for-aquatic-professionals/
Hello everyone, Welcome back to the Aquatic Mentors Podcast for season 2. I am so excited to be back and sharing many more wonderful interviews with aquatic professionals across Australia and the world. Keep a look out for my new E book - Season 1 - Top 10 Tips for Aquatic Professionals. You can download your copy at the websites listed below. Please share your thoughts on the podcast episodes on the Aquatic Mentors Facebook page. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Nancy and Tony Shaw Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview a husband and wife team who have touched ever part of the wonderful aquatic industry. So please welcome Nancy and Tony Shaw to the podcast. Nancy began her career in swimming after marrying Tony. She brought her customer service skills to Tony's swim schools and together they built a fantastic carer in swimming. Her amazing list of achievements in the industry are: · Raised 3 lovely children who all took part in swimming · Owner operator of Tony Shaw's Swim School for 22 years · She has attended all Swim Australia conferences presenting at 6 · Organised and presented at, NSW ASCTA teaching stream conference in 2000 · Presented Swim Australia Courses on behalf of ASCTA (SAT & B&T) · Presented at International Swim Schools Conference Phuket, 2014 · Member of Swim Australia ACE (Aquatic Community Experts) since 2014 · Swim Australia Advisory Committee member since 2016 · Representative to National Swimming and Water Safety Forum, May 2017 · Representative NSW Government Water Safety Forum, May 2017 · Represented ASCTA/Swim Australia to ATO re GST Free Swimming Lessons · Represented ASCTA/Swim Australia to FWA re Fitness Industry Award update · Attended International Swim School Conference – Hamilton Island 2018 Tony began swimming when he was young and achieved medals at National level competitions. He than took his swimming success and expanded into the coaching field helping other swimmers reach major senior and junior swimming teams including the Olympics, Commonwealth Games and World Championships. Tony's inspiration list of achievements are: § Performance accredited Coach § President Australian Swimming Coaches and Teachers Association: Nov 2013 to Nov 2020 § Life Member ASCTA § Board member: Australian Swimming Coaches and Teachers Association: 39 years § ASCTA Australian representative Coaching ring #93 § Board member: ASCTA NSW (former Chairman), former Board Member Swimming NSW § Coaching experience: 41 years (since 1978) § Have placed swimmers on all major Senior (Olympics, Commonwealth Games, World Championships {Long and Short}, Pan Pacific Championships and Junior Teams § Australian Sports Medal Sydney 2000 § Member SOPAC Swimming Club and former Head Coach § Private Swim School owner since 1978 (Tony Shaw's Swim School, Toongabbie NSW). § Director of Holsworthy Aquatic Centre (NSW). Nancy and Tony offer so much experience and wisdom to the industry and this podcast episode. They are a delightful couple who have dedicated their life to the aquatic industry helping to shape and expand the industry. Through today's episode Nancy and Tony share some insights into their work as well as their thoughts on swimming in Australia and where they see swimming moving to in the future. Please share your thoughts on Nancy and Tony's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find their contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com So, let's jump in and find out more about Nancy and Tony's journey in swimming. Nancy and Tony Shaw's Contact Information: Website: www.holsworthyswimming.com.au Email: nancyshaw@tonyshaws.com.au LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-shaw-2879b213/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Paul Fernee Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has been involved in implementing aquatics, recreation, sports facility management and community engagement within Local Government for the past twelve years. So please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Paul Fernee. After finishing his studies in applied science Paul found it hard to find work which complemented his so he took on a lifeguarding position and worked his way to a duty manager position for aquatic facilities in Melbourne. During the interview Paul shares the struggles he found in acquiring higher level roles in aquatics management during his early years and the advice he would give to young people these days looking to break into that level of employment. Paul came across an advertisement for a aquatic's role in rural Victoria with the Buloke Shire where he spent 10 years running the Shires 7 outdoor facilities. During these 10 years Paul continued to enhance his skills through future study and taking on additional roles I the Shire. In 2019 Paul moved to his new role as manager of Community Engagement at the neighbouring shire of Gannawarra in Northern Victoria. His roles now include overseeing the management of the shire's outdoor aquatic facilities as well as an indoor therapy pool and assisting other community owned aquatic facilities. The Kerang Amateur Swimming and Lifesaving Club of which I am president of is situated in one of the Gannawarra Shires outdoor facilities. I am excited to be able to share Paul's journey in aquatics and to highlight another profession involved with swimming and the diversity the aquatic industry brings across Australia. Through today's episode Paul shares insights into his journey, as well as his thoughts on swimming in Australia and where he see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share what inspiration you draw from Paul's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors. If you want to share your aquatic story then please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com as I know we can all learn from your experience. So, let's jump in and find out more about Paul's journey in swimming. Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-van-eyk-261851124/ Paul Fernee's Contact Information: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-fernee-731a65a0/ Email: council@gannawarra.vic.gov.au
Podcast Episode – Tanya Allan Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has brought her knowledge from teaching studies to her swim teaching and her swim school. So please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Tanya Allan. While completing her teaching degree Tanya realised the standard classroom teaching was not for her. After speaking with the swim school owner where her children learnt to swim, she found her calling and jumped headfirst into the swim school business when she purchased the swim school after teaching there for a short time. Tanya developed her skills for helping anxious swimmers and designed a program which focused on recognising the fear and then taking small steps of bravery to overcome the anxiety. Her daughter enjoyed mixing with the swimmers during these programs and when she was diagnosed with Leukaemia Tanya was amazed how her daughter could articulate her feelings about the treatment so well. Tanya's daughter showed levels of bravery not commonly seen in children during her treatments and this inspired Tanya to start a children's cancer charity called, Bravery Box. Through her charity Tanya inspires children and teenagers going through cancer to find joy and laughter and help them celebrate their courage. During our chat Tanya shares that her biggest inspiration is her staff at the Little Big Swim School. She enjoys watching their passion and love for the industry and share's a recent moment when working together on the swim schools video library. Through today's episode Tanya shares insights into her journey, as well as her thoughts on swimming in Australia and where she see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share what inspiration you draw from Tanya's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors. If you want to share your aquatic story then please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com as I know we can all learn from your experience. So, let's jump in and find out more about Tanya's journey in swimming. Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-van-eyk-261851124/ Tanya Allan's Contact Information: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanya-allan-54891b171/ Website - https://www.littlebigswim.com.au/ Email: hello@littlebigswim.com.au
Podcast Episode – Peter Tonkin Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has dedicated his life to giving back to the sport that gave him so much. So please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Peter Tonkin. Peter began his journey in swimming as a youngster and showed promise as a Breaststroke swimmer. Under the watchful eye of coach, Harry Gallagher, Peter swam with well-known swimmers of the time including Olympic swimmer, Dawn Fraser. In 1964 Peter qualified to swim at the Tokyo Olympics winning a Bronze medal with his teammates for the medley relay. Peter also swam at the trails for the Mexico Olympics beating his rival in his pet event. The joy was short lived though as Peter's was called up for National Service the following day. After moving to Tasmania in 1979 Peter founded the Northern Suburbs Swimming Club at the Mowbray pool. After growing the club to be one of the largest swimming club in Tasmania Peter headed off to the Northern Territory where he spent 10 years teaching children of the indigenous communities to ‘Swim Fast'. Peter enjoyed getting the community involved in the children's swimming and using the older teenagers of the community as role models and teachers for the younger kids. His work in the indigenous communities resulted in him receiving an Order of Australia Medal in 2019. Peter is now back in Tasmania coaching and presenting aquatic courses as well as holding the role of President for ASCTA Tasmania. He still dedicates his time to swimming and building the industry. Through today's episode Peter shares some great stories of his swimming journey, his career highlight of attending the Tokyo Olympics as well as his thoughts on swimming in Australia and where he see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share what inspiration you draw from Peter's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors. I am on the lookout for more aquatic journeys to share. No matter how big or small you think your story is we can all learn something from your experience so contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com to book a interview. Keep a look out for a special episode on ASCTA trainers across Australia. With Summer on the way and Covid restrictions lifting, now is the best time to train your staff and have them Summer ready. I have also developed a short survey to help us understand the needs of swim schools when it comes to training your staff and new recruits. Check out the Facebook page – Aquatic Mentors to complete the survey and help us build a better service around your swim schools training needs. Now, let's jump in and find out more about Peter's journey in swimming. Peter Tonkin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ptonkin/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-van-eyk-261851124/
Podcast Episode – Ian Pope Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has had years of experience in both learn to swim and coaching and has reached the heights of Platinum level swimming coach with swimmers medalling at the Olympics. So please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Ian Pope. While working as a professional musician Ian began his aquatic journey as a learn to swim teacher at the Harold Holt pool and then moved into a coaching role for the Surrey Park club in the early 80's developing both the clubs learn to swim and squad programs. Ian then moved on to Melbourne Vicentre Swimming Club building a name for himself in coaching. He made his first Olympic Swim Team as coach in 2000 for the Sydney Olympics and continues to place athletes on Olympic and Australian Teams. Over his career Ian has received the award for Victorian Coach of the year and ASCTA Coach of the year numerous times and has coached 50 plus Olympic and World team swimmers. These include swimming greats like Michael Klim, Matt Welsh, Giaan Rooney, Brett Hawke and Grant Hacket. Through today's episode Ian shares some insights into his journey, sharing thoughts on his career highlight of attending the Sydney Olympics as well as his thoughts on swimming in Australia and where he see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share what inspiration you draw from Ian's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors. If you want to share your aquatic story then please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com as I know we can all learn from your experience. So, let's jump in and find out more about Ian's journey in swimming. Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Lane Harrison Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview a tech specialist who with his team has developed software which is focused on customer retention in leisure centres and swim schools. So, please give a big welcome to the podcast to Lane Harrison. In 2014 when the company expanded its software to swim schools Lane and his team surveyed clients and developed a 7-step framework on how to grow and optimise a swim school on which he shares details about in his interview. Swim Desk is now running in swim school across Australia, New Zealand and has just been introduced to Hong Kong. Lane and his team surveyed their clients and the swim school customers to pinpoint the areas which influence customer retention. This research help locate points of interest where customers would generally fall through the cracks and drop out of a normal swim school system. Lane has also developed a podcast which focuses on the business side of swim schools and the strategies needed to grow swim schools. He interviews swim school managers, owners and industry leaders. Check out his podcast at Swim School Business podcast. In today's episode Lane shares some great insights into his work as well as his thoughts on swimming in Australia and where he see's technology advancing swimming in the future. Please share the point's in Lane's interview which resonated with you on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com So, let's dive in and find out more about Lane's journey in swimming. Lane Harrison's Contact Information: Email: info@mygreenedesk.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greenedesklaneharrison/ Swim Desk: https://www.greenedesk.com.au/swimdesk/ Swim School Business Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/swim-school-business-podcast/id1507866852 Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Rohan Taylor Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has been involved with swimming in some way since his childhood covering many roles from swimmer, swim teacher, swim school owner, coach, state coach and now the acclaimed role of the Australia Dolphins Head Coach. So, please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Rohan Taylor. Rohan has experienced the life of swimming in many different countries including Hong Kong, USA and Australia and while competing in a local swim meet in San Jose, California Rohan completed against the 1984 Australian Olympic Swim Team. During this meet Rohan's father introduced him to the coaching staff of the Australian Swim team who noticed his swimming talent and invited him to train at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra where he made several great connections with other swimmers. After returning to the USA to finish school Rohan took on a coaching role with a local swim team. He enjoyed coaching and wanted to continue to coach after finishing school but realised to be able to support himself he needed to work in the learn to swim environment. This time in learn to swim and coaching consecutively showed Rohan the importance learn to swim has on making a great competitive swimmer. This is a value he still believes now and he shares inspiration on this topic during his interview. With this knowledge Rohan moved back to Australia where he took on a few jobs in swim schools and clubs in both NSW and Victoria. He moved into the high-performance role with Nunawading Swimming Club in Victoria where he coached several Commonwealth Games and Olympic Games swimmers. Rohan's experience being involved with state and nation teams gave him the opportunity to take on the role as head state coach for Victoria and Tasmanian. While working in this role Rohan took the opportunity to work with Australia's than head coach Jacco Verhaeren as his 2IC. Earlier this year Jacco made the decision to move back to Holland with is family and Rohan accepted the role of head coach for the Australian Dolphins Swimming Team and is now working towards the team's success at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. In today's episode Rohan shares some great insights into his work as well as his thoughts on swimming in Australia and where he see's swimming moving to in the future. He also offers his inspiring thoughts for those swim schools and clubs still effected by Covid. Please share the point's in Rohan's interview which resonated with you on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com So, let's dive in and find out more about Rohan's journey in swimming. Rohan Taylor's Contact Information: Email: rohan.taylor@swimming.org.au LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rohan-taylor-b3705454/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has had more than 25 years of experience in the aquatics field so please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Debby Tattoli. Debby is an Advanced Level Coach, Swim Australia Course Presenter, Swim Australia Advisory Committee member and asctaNSW board member. An accomplished and driven professional, Debby has a passion for all things swimming. As a business owner, head coach, active teacher and course presenter, Debby has expertise across a broad range of aquatic industry issues. She oversees 5 Swim Schools and over 100 staff and is dedicated to providing rewarding career opportunities and professional development to continually up skill her team and the broader swimming community. Debby is also the Head Coach of Kincumber Pacific Dolphins Swim Team and has produced multiple State and National Representatives, medalists, and record holders. Through today's episode Debby shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming in Australia and where she see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share the hidden gems you find in Debby's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com So, let's jump in and find out more about Debby's journey in swimming. Debby Tattoli's Contact Information: 5 Start Swim Schools: https://5starswimschools.com.au/ Swim School Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/5StarSwimSchools/?rf=154981997963411 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debby-tattoli-33b9b897/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Joanne Love Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional with 25 years of experience as a high-performance expert both in and out of swimming who knows what it takes to succeed in any environment. So please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Joanne Love. Joanne is passionate about helping others realise their full potential through the implementation of psychology and neuroscience. She has worked with Schools, Athletes and Business Executives to achieve impressive outcomes; including Olympic potentials who have gone on to achieve high-level success, including Olympic Gold and World Championship titles. Joanne has successfully delivered her ground-breaking programs and educational seminars in Australia and overseas working for the Australian High Commission, numerous private schools, international sporting organisations and individual Olympic champions. Joanne Love is an Australian Gold Performance Swim Coach holding many qualifications including Bachelor of Psychology with Advanced Graduate Diploma. She has been an elite swimming coach for many years, being included on many State, National and International teams. Joanne represented Australia at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics as a swimming coach and has also coached several Olympic Medallists and World Record Holders. Joanne also owns a successful Swim School, Learn to Swim Victoria, which operates from two locations. In addition to her swimming career, Joanne works with elite sporting organisations imparting a wealth of information on how psychology and neuroscience can create successful outcomes, both within Australia and internationally. Through today's episode Joanne shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming in Australia and where she see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share the inspiration you draw from Joanne's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com So, let's dive in and find out more about Joanne's journey in swimming. Joanne Love's Contact Information: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannelove/ Email: info@joannelove.com Proactive Performance Website: https://www.proactiveperformanceaustralia.com/ Learn to Swim Victoria Website: https://www.learntoswimvic.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoanneLoveProactivePerformanceAustralia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LearnToSwimVictoria Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email – regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Fiona Stewart Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who in a short time has gained extensive experience in the aquatic industry so please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Fiona Stewart. After graduating Learn to Swim lessons Fiona moved onto a competitive swimming team at the age of 13. Under the guidance of her coach Rob Moon, Fiona developed her love and appreciation for swimming and shared this with her teammates and the community. Fiona completed her Austswim Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety in 2014 and moved quickly into coaching in 2015 where she has support local swim teams with their coaching efforts. One of her personal highlight's was coordinating and managing a team for the 2012-2014 24hr MS Mega Swim's where participants swim in teams for 24 hours raising funds for Multiple Sclerosis. In 2017 Fiona completed her Bachelor of Sport Development and used the skills gained to take on management roles including her now current role as Swim School Manager at Core24 Health Clubs. Fiona is a strong believer that exercise can be used as a tool to develop individuals and the community for the better. Since retiring from competitive swimming, Fiona has found a passion for triathlon and holistic health. Through today's episode Fiona shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming in Australia and where she see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share what inspiration you draw from Fiona's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find her details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story than please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com as I know we can all learn from your experience. So, let's jump in and find out more about Fiona's journey in swimming. Fiona Stewart's Contact Information: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fiona-stewart/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Jason Hellwig Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has had years of experience in sports administration and development so please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Jason Hellwig. Jason's achievements in the administration of sport began early in his career when he took on the role of Development Officer at Athletics Australia. He moved up the ranks and continued to have a impact on sport by taking on the role of Director of Sport at the Australian Paralympic Committee. In 2010 Jason became the Chief Executive Officer for the Australian Paralympic Committee where he was responsible for leading the corporate and sporting strategy of the organisation to consistent and internationally competitive standards. After taking a year off to pursue private consulting Jason moved into the role of CEO for Swimming Victoria in 2016. His work at Swimming Victoria is aimed at driving growth in the sport Victoria wide. Jason believes strongly in being compelling in our proposition, excellent in our delivery and strong through our culture and values. In 2012 Jason attended the London Paralympic Games as the Chef de Mission for the Australian Paralympic Team. Jason is a performance and values driven leader with a compelling set of experiences including strategic sport business development, brand and public proposition growth, change and innovation in complex, competitive and fast changing landscapes. He is highly focused on setting and achieving commercial outcomes with substantial corporate and government relationships. Through the 5 years Jason has been involved with Swimming Victoria Jason has progressed and improved the services offered while empowering his staff and those involved in the industry. In today's episode Jason shares his love for swimming and also some great insights as why he finds our sport so amazing. I am excited to bring you Jason's vision for Swimming in Victoria and Australia and his thoughts on making the front door into the mansion of swimming bigger. Jason shares with me his experiences during COVID and how these experiences will impact how Swimming Victoria works into the future past COVID lockdown. Please share the inspirational insights you find in Jason's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all his contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com So, let's jump in and find out more about Jason's journey in swimming. Jason Hellwig's Contact Information: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonhellwig/ Email: jason.hellwig@vic.swimming.org.au Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - regionalswimclinics@outlook.com Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Ross Gage Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has learnt from the best in the industry and has made a massive contribution to the way the aquatic industry runs today. Please welcome to the podcast Ross Gage. Ross started his swimming journey in learn to swim lessons with the legend Laurie Lawrence in country Queensland where he developed his love for swimming and teaching. Ross has since had a list of roles in the aquatic industry including owning his own swim school, coaching, CEO of Australian Swimming Coaches and Teachers Association, Swim Australia, and Australian Swim Schools Association. Early in his career Ross received a Bachelor of Human Movement Studies (Education) specializing in psychosocial aspects of children in sport and physical recreation and became a Tutor of Physical Ed. Student teachers in the Dept. of Human Movement Studies. He continued to develop his skills by completing aquatic courses and qualifying as a Silver licence coach for swimming. Ross's list of professional positions, events he has played a role in developing, achievements as well as lectures and publications he has written in his aquatic journey is enough to make anyone's mouth drop. He has had a massive impact on the aquatic industry in so many diverse ways and he has not finished yet. During our talk Ross mentions his induction into the United States Swim School Associations Hall of Fame in 2017 as one of his biggest highlights and I can understand why. Even though Ross has reached big heights in swimming career he is still very humble and enjoys watching his partners grandchildren take part in their first swimming lessons. Normally when I record my interviews with guests, I spend time getting to know them before rolling into the podcast questions. This includes small talk and a quick catch up for those that I have met before. I do not normally include these introduction conversations in the podcast, but Ross shared such amazing information with me that I new I needed to include it in the recording. I learnt so much from my interview with Ross and I would love to learn what comments or points inspired you so please share them on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all of Ross's contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com as I would love to know my audience better by sharing your journey in swimming. So, let's jump into my interview with Ross Gage as he is sharing his thoughts on the advantages of technology in swim schools. Ross Gage's Contact Information: Email: ross.gage@aussieaquatics.com.au Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ross-gage-41b37817/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Amanda Maher Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has had years of experience in the aquatics field and volunteering for community organisations so please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Amanda Maher. She has been teaching swimming since 2002 and during this time she has used her skills to develop her swimmers as well as staff. While working as the Aquatics Coordinator for the Kingston City Council Amanda undertook her Diploma in Business Administration and Management and used the skills, she learnt through the course to enhance her role at the council's aquatic centre. While in her role at the Kingston City Council the Aquatic centre won the 2009 ARV – Swim School of the year award. Amanda than moved on to coordinate the VICSWIM program with Aquatics and Recreation Victoria. VICSWIM is a state-wide intensive 3-week swim program which runs through January and employees a large workforce at one of the busiest times of the year. She now dedicates her time to her roles with the Kingston City Council at their aquatic facility which covers all areas of the Aquatic program through customer service to aquatics supervisor and mentoring new swimming teachers working at the venue. In 2018 Amanda was awarded the National AUSTSWIM Teacher for Access and Inclusion award which she holds as one of her biggest personal achievements. Through today's episode Amanda shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming in Australia and where she see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share the hidden gems you find in Amanda's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com So, let's jump in and find out more about Amanda's journey in swimming. Amanda Maher Contact Information: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-maher-13932245/ Email: amanda-maher@hotmail.com Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Emma Lawrence Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview a woman who has dedicated her life to swimming and water safety, the amazing Emma Lawrence. Emma joined the family business during her years in high school and made a big impact on the business while studying at University bringing the knowledge and skills she developed through her Business degree into the family swim school helping expand and develop it into what we see today. This achievement includes 3 Swim School venues, an online swim training website for swim teachers, parents and coaches as well as the Kids Alive Do The Five program and other water safety programs. Emma has had a passion for baby swimming but after the birth of her two girls Emma wanted to share this passion with as many mums as she could. Watching her girls develop a real joy for the water while acquiring their water safety skills has offered her the opportunity to learn so much more about children and swimming. Through the connection with major Aquatic Training organisations in Australia and the world Emma has been able to share the connection her and her girls have with the water by running in person training sessions for swim teachers as well online sessions. Emma looks forward to documenting the develop of her new baby niece and nephew as they learn to swim and experience the joys of swimming. Through today's episode Emma shares some insights into her work as well as her thoughts on swimming in Australia and where she see's swimming moving to in the future. Please share your thoughts on Emma's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com So, let's jump in and find out more about Emma's journey in swimming. Emma Lawrence's Contact Information: World Wide Swim School Website: https://worldwideswimschool.com/ Kids Alive Do The Five: https://kidsalive.com.au/ Learn to Swim Week: https://learn2swimweek.com/registrations-open-soon/ Email: emma@laurielawrenceswimschool.com.au Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Kelly Perkins Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview a young lady who has been involved in many levels of the Australian aquatic industry and who also spent time swimming and coaching in USA. Kelly Perkins is an experienced Marketing Research Consultant with a demonstrated history of working in the management consulting industry. Outside of swimming Kelly is skilled in Event Planning, Customer Service, Coaching, Advertising, and Sales. She has a bachelor's degree focusing on Business/Commerce from University of New England (AU). In 2016 Kelly developed a boutique swim school called Nu-Swim in Queensland which caters for children, adults, and competitors alike. At Nu-Swim her students are not trained to a level-based structure. The ‘technique-based program' is developed to the personal strengths and weaknesses of each student and focuses on the individual's stroke development and continued improved skills, challenging them to perform well in all situations. I am so pleased to be able to share Kelly's story and her views on the aquatic industry both pre and post COVID. Due to technical difficulties we had to rerecord the second half of this interview so there may be some changes in our conversation regarding the first country wide lockdown for COVID and then the second COVID lockdown currently being experienced by Victoria. Please share your thoughts on Kelly's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com So, let's jump in and find out more about Kelly's journey in swimming. Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-van-eyk-261851124/ Kelly Perkins Contact Information: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-perkins-28b06898/ Website: https://nu-swim.com.au/ Email: bigsurf81@hotmail.com
Podcast Episode – Taya Phillips and Kathy Parton Hello and welcome to the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview two ladies who are at the head of the Aquatics and Recreation Victoria Office. Taya Phillips is the Member Services and Event Coordinator and Kathy Parton is the Chief Executive Officer at ARV. While not having a background in swimming these two ladies have brought the experience and skills they acquired through previous roles to ARV. Kathy's experience covers local, state, and federal government in the areas of Community Wellbeing, Community Capacity Building, Health and Disability Services, Children's Services Planning and Development as well as many more roles in government. Taya's experience lies in event management and marketing which has included roles for guest services and events at Walt Disney World and Hospitality and Special Events at Cricket Australia. Kathy has experienced a baptism of fire into her role of CEO at ARV being only a month into her role when the 2019-20 fires hit Eastern Victoria. During ARV's star VICSWIM program Kathy and Taya with the help of all the VICSWIM staff had the challenge of moving, cancelling and rehousing daily swimming lessons for the intensive 3-week program. ARV is now playing a large role in supporting the Victorian Aquatic Industry as we endeavour to come out of the COVID lockdown as a stronger more unified industry. I hope you enjoy my interview with Taya Philips and Kathy Parton from Aquatics and Recreation Victoria as much as I did. Please share your thoughts on Kathy and Taya's interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors and you will find their contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story, please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com So, let's jump in and find out more about Taya and Kathy's journey in swimming. Aquatics and Recreation Victoria: Website: https://www.aquaticsandrecreation.org.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aquaticsandrecreation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aquaticsandrecreationvic/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/aquarecvic Email: admin@aquaticsandrecreation.org.au Kathy Parton's Contact Information: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-parton-486b2b32/ Taya Phillips Contact Information: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taya-phillips-6ab66468/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Danielle Taylor Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview a young lady who is a big advocate for the regional and rural swimming industry. My guest, Danielle Taylor swam started her swimming journey in her small country town of Alpha which is 14 hours west of Brisbane. Danielle developed her swimming ability in towns seasonal pool and then was given the opportunity to swim for a bigger squad when she moved to Brisbane for boarding school. After her swimming career Danielle moved onto University and studied Medicine and has completed her master's in Public Health. Danielle draws on the information she has learnt outside the pool to enhance her swim school and the local community. The 8-week swimming program her swim school provides is complimented with her presenting skills when she offers training courses which help residents stay safe and respond to emergencies. In 2019 Danielle received the prestigious Swim Australia Swim Teacher of the Year Award and the Alpha Swim School won the Swim Australia Outstanding Community Service Award. I am so pleased to be able to share Danielle's story and her views on the regional and rural swimming industry. Please share your thoughts on Danielle's interview on our Facebook page Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com So, let's jump in and find out more about Danielle's journey in swimming. Danielle Taylor's Contact Information: Alpha Swim School: https://www.facebook.com/alphalearntoswim/ info@alphalearntoswim.com Link to Danielle's published article for the International Journal of Safety: https://www.mdpi.com/2313-576X/6/2/31?fbclid=IwAR0rHmNa-VIgyVyBkfsITvCK3dSnWYRAT_NVg-FZAoKxNsQi9AbNDO51TR4 Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Tori Karg de Almeida Interview Hello and welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I'm your host, Katrina van Eyk. Today I chat with a lady with many talents and a strong passion to help the aquatic industry. Tori Karg de Almeida has been teaching swimming for 20 years and is the owner of Aquamad Swim School in South Africa. During her years of swim teaching Tori used her marketing skills and talents to help other swim schools to promote their services and fill their classes. Tori realised she could impact many more swim schools by expanding her marketing services so she founded Shine Swim School Marketing, a digital marketing company that specialises in helping entrepreneurs grow and scale their swim schools. Tori shares some amazing insights with me regarding marketing your swim school and how we can come out of Covid a bigger and better industry with a marketing message which is streamlined for all of the aquatic industry. Please share your thoughts on Tori's interview on our Facebook page Aquatic Mentors and you will find all her contact details listed at the end of the show notes. If you want to share your aquatic story please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com So, let's find out more about Tori's journey in swimming. Find Tori's free downloads by clicking on this link: https://value.shineswimschoolmarketing.com/ Tori Karg de Almeida's Contact Information: Website - https://shineswimschoolmarketing.com/ Email - info@shineswimschoolmarketing.com Facebook – Shine Swim School Marketing LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/torikargdealmeida/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Michael de Souza Hi, and welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. It's great to have you onboard, I'm your host Katrina van Eyk and today we're going to be talking to the amazing Michael de Souza. Now Michael de Souza is a Caribbean born man who lives in London. He's fantastic swim teacher, who's using his background to expand and encourage kids to swim in a really fun and exciting way. So, we talked today with Michael about how he learned to swim and how his journey started and what he brings to the swimming industry and to the kids that he teaches. So, Michael's had a lot of time teaching celebrities, children to swim. So, quite a few celebrities in London and around the UK, got him to teach their children to swim and they had a lot of farmers, a lot of entertainment, a lot of joking and a lot of rhymes brought into his teaching and we talk about the future and what he sees for it. And we also talk about his amazing talents as a writer. Now Michael wrote books about a mouse called Rastamouse and his crew Da Easy Crew and his books are fantastic, and they have been made into a TV series, which is played here in Australia called Rastamouse. He is now developing other books that are related to swimming as is one of his main passions and I really can't wait to be able to read them and show them to my students and my children. So, I hope you really enjoy this episode. I had a lot of fun and I learned a lot from it. He has a lot of wisdom and knowledge to share with us, but I've also left the little sacred in the end of the episode for you, just for a bit of laughs. Alright, enjoy it. And we started at podcasts with Michael de Souza and we are asking him where he started his journey and swimming. How did I start my swimming? Yes, your journey in swimming. Well, basically as a self-taught swimmer, I was very, very scared of swimming, petrified actually and, I eventually taught myself. That's how I got into swimming, just teach myself. Wow, good work. So, you just threw yourself in the deep end and off you went. Well, I wouldn't say deep end. I would say very much the shallow end. Good point. Do you find that helps you when you are teaching other kids that are scared? Well, absolutely, totally and completely, because I would say I understand fear of water very, very, very well. Like I can recognize it from 500m, to be honest with you, I've seen it in all forms, guises. People pretend with ego and they say I'm all right, but, you know, because I know it couldn't have been anyone more frightened than myself in the water. So, you know, I more say to myself that I'm more about someone that eradicates fear as opposed to just being a swimming teacher, specialising in eradicated fear. Wow, I really like that. That's a good way of putting it, eradicating the fear from swimming. What a good idea. What's been your biggest lesson that you've learned through swimming? I think what I've learned that it's a great equalizer. It doesn't matter what you look like, sex, age, height, build it doesn't matter. Once you got the love of the water, anyone could really enjoy it and look wonderful in water. Perfect! I really liked that and I feel the same and I know on land I'm not so elegant, but once I'm in the water, I feel as elegant as dolphin and a mermaid and that's the same for everyone, I think. Absolutely, yeah. That's one thing I've definitely done. And what's been your biggest highlight of your swimming journey? There were a couple of things, right? One student, people was said that he didn't concentrate and what not. Anyway, after teaching him, he entered this new competition in Spain, held by the King of Spain and he won a gold medal. People, found it difficult to teach him, but I didn't find it difficult at all. That is the main one really. And then the biggest thing for me was going to Sri Lanka after the tsunami in 2005, 2006, I was invited over there to teach 69 children to get them into the water. It's as a big highlight. Wow, 69. That would be just amazing, the whole fear factor involved in that would just be amazing to be able to push them through that and get them in. Yeah, completely and the thing is, some of them hadn't been in water before. Some of them were going to return to the water, but equally as well, they've never been in a swimming pool and fortunately for us, there was a, one of the people that sponsored me. She had a friend, I think his name is Jeffery Bauer, an architect. He owned a property in Sri Lanka. So, I asked him if we could use the swimming pool and we got the students in there. It's the first time they'd ever been in a swimming pool and I managed to get 65 of them in that week in the swimming pool in the deep end. Wow, that's fantastic. Yeah, it was fantastic. That's great and that shows a lot to the power of swimming and your teaching skills and what you've been able to do to be able to get people in there, and especially not coming from Sri Lanka and having to deal with sort of the cultural background and be able to get them in the water and get them skills. That's fantastic. Yeah, it is quite interesting as well, because obviously there was a language barrier, but what I decided to do was try to have a common language that neither of us knew too great, which was Italian. So, when they did something, I'd say ‘Fantastico and Bravo' and they loved it. What a great way of looking at it. I would have never thought of something like that. Yeah, because they don't speak my language, I don't speak their language. Do you know what I mean? I thought let's meet in the middle, you know, it's like that. Yep, oh wow, so smart. So, no wonder the kids relate to you so well to be able to think outside the box like that. Yeah, that's what you got to do with children. You know, you have to, you have to think outside the box also, it mustn't be predictable. Cause I think when you are predictable swimming could be a bit boring, you know? Yeah, that's right. And that's the thing I think for teachers, a lot of swimming has to be repetitive because that's how kids at that age learn. But it's about being repetitive with the skills, but the way you teach it being different. Absolutely. Look, the thing is right. At the end of the day, when you're swimming, your arms bends and straightens, your legs bend and straighten and they'll kick up and they don't do much else. So, it's how many different ways you can persuade someone to do that. So, I've been dealing with children, their whole world is about play. You've got massive scope there. So, you know, it's just a blank canvas, really? That you can fill up. That's brilliant. Wow, that's great thinking. And that is it. They are a blank canvas. Swimming is something that we can fill their lives with and expand in so many ways. It becomes, you know, a lot of people I've spoken to have said that swimming, it's not just confidence in the water. It's confidence in their whole life as well. Most definitely. It seemed to me like you were gonna say that. And I said, if you weren't, I would have said it because there's been many, many occasions where I've had taught children and the parents have said to me, listen, it's made such a difference right across the board is lifted up their confidence in every aspect of their life, which is brilliant. Yeah, it is great. And I find that here in Australia, because we're such a water based society that, there's so many different aquatic sports, and even, people go on holidays to the beach, people go on holidays to the rivers and they water ski and a jet boat and they do all sorts of things like that. I think having that skill and that confidence in the water, they can then do so many other activities, whether they'd be water-based or whether they're not the, they can feel confident and know that they're going to be safe while they're participating. Yes. Yeah, exactly. So, was there anyone that played a big role in your swimming journey? Like a mentor or family member? Yeah. Well, when I looked at that question, I thought there were two people that influenced me and they were both when I was in primary school, one was one of my peers, Tony Nash. He was an English fellow and you know, when we come from the Caribbean, obviously none of us can swim very well, but he was like the original little English fish. He was a proper little fish. He swam good, he dived well plus he looked good in his trunks. The other person that really was a massive influence was a teacher called Mr. Limerick. He was from Australia and in our primary school every Friday, he used to show us real to real life films of Sydney, films of Australian divers, swimmers, Mexican cliff divers and that's where I got my love for diving and swimming. Cause I loved diving. Anything to do the water by that time. Yeah, it was funny. Cause it was the first time I'd met an Australian. This was like 60, 65, 66. So, he made a good impression for all of Australia then? Absolutely. Most definitely. Oh, phew. That's good. So, you overcame your fear of swimming quite early. I gathered that it was later in life, teenager or going into your twenties, but it sounds like you overcame that fear earlier. So, quite early. I was nine years old. The thing is I was just persevering because I mean I loved it and by that time, I started loving a lot of television programs that was sea based. Scuba diving programs. I was fascinated and even another person was Esther Williams, you know, the American Hollywood actress. I liked her swimming films. Yeah, I loved doing that. It was just such a fantasy. The thing about swimming in the water it's so magical and I say it's the closest on earth we going to get to flying or to the sensation we are going to get to flying. Good point, I like that and that is true. It just feels like you're flying. And when you're in the water and the whole freedom of movement, and the fact that, if you do have difficulty on land, it's just dissipates in the water. Most definitely and the best example I can give you of that was I had to teach a young girl once, she was autistic. So, she wouldn't really look at you at all, never mind talk. So, the first lesson I followed her all around the pool, she kept walking. I followed her all around the pool, right. And the last five minutes I managed to engage with her, I got under the water. So, the next lesson instinctively, I don't know why. It was only a second lesson. I took her to the deep end, right. We went to the deep end. I went in the water, she came next to me, held onto the side and then she let go. She submerged herself and was just looking up to the surface in a dream state and from that moment on, she could swim in the deep end. She learned very, very quickly within like three weeks. You could see she was in a, a real peaceful place. Cause it's so quiet under there and with the Autistic condition it's the noise and all that, that they find sometimes very difficult to deal with. That is it. That's something I say when I teach new swim teachers coming through, especially with autism, they are attracted to the water. It is calming and peaceful for them and it is somewhere, if you do have an autistic child who wonders, they will look for water because that is that calming and peaceful atmosphere for them. It becomes more of a concern that we have to teach them to swim so that they're safe around the water. But to be able to see that in her eyes and see that in her face that it becomes such a dream for here and relaxed. Yes. It was a very moving experience for me. It was very moving because I thought, wow, we look it at as sometimes we take life for granted and the simplest things you take for granted is for instance, even a little moment of peace, and real tranquillity. We don't often get that. So right. Very, very true. And something like now when we're in lockdown, over in Australia, we're just coming out of it. But yeah, that peacefulness and that calm it's, it's something we've all been craving. It's great we can bring that through in aquatics. Yes. So, with all your training and all the wisdom that you've had and all the experiences you've had in your time as a swim teacher, what advice would you give to a new swim teacher coming out now? What I would say the first thing is make sure that you love your subject and you have the attitude that you want to pass on the love of the subject. Not feature anyone just pass on the love of it and also remember, the most important thing initially is to develop a relationship with the child quickly, make them feel at ease, make them feel that you're going to be a friend of theirs. They're not there to perform or be put under any sort of pressure. You're there to help them have a very loving, fun experience. Good point, I really like that. And I think that's the thing, I know for me, you do get that relationship with kids that you do become like a friend to them and if you can put them at ease, the whole process of swimming and learning to swim becomes a lot easier for them. Absolutely and I'll tell you one thing as well. I think what I've found has been lacking in a lot of teachers over the years that I've observed, right. They seem to be a bit worried about not making themselves look ridiculous in front of a child. You know that one of the things I would say to children, you know, is I don't want you to splash me. Well, you know, what's coming next don't you. Yeah. Especially if it's a little child that's nervous because children want a little power. They want the power over adults to do something that an adult will make you sit up and listen. So, to me, the first thing is be prepared to make yourself look ridiculous. I like that, it is so true. And I find that all the time. It's just, it makes them relaxed. It's a lot of fun and who doesn't want to giggle while you're working. Exactly because look, I'll tell you the driving force for me Katrina with swimming, right. I'd said I'd watch swimming teachers previously, right. And I said, you know what, children play all the time and every opportunity to play they'll take it, yeah. Yet there was so many come to the swimming lessons that were stiff, they were rigid, they weren't laughing and they weren't joking in any form, yeah. I said, no, I wont a child to be able to play in the environment, but obviously to be competent, be safe and be confident, yeah. So, don't be stupid things just for the sake of play. Play safely, be aware. So that's what I wanted to make. Be able to play in any environment wet or dry. Yeah, and that's right. My mentor, Joanne Love. She's been working with children and she's done work on the psychology side and it's been interesting. She just put an article out today on her LinkedIn about the fact that kids are looking for that play. There not looking for that competition or, you know, having to be the best. They actually want to enjoy their swimming, whether it be competitive kids or whether it be learn to swim. The whole point of getting in that water is to be free and to be able to enjoy it. Exactly. Exactly. And to me, you know, when I became a teacher, a swimming teacher I just thought I'm really, truly blessed because I've got this opportunity now to present as much fun as possible from a totally, totally different perspective, you know, just take the children off guard, totally. I like that, that's right. They don't know what's coming then. No, that's right. They're done. And you're building resilience in them because they have to do, be able to deal with every situation. Exactly. You know, I always like to test them and mess about with the stuff. So, I mean, if I meet a child that they might be just alright at swimming, just a little bit, they might need a lot of technique or they need a bit more training than they think. So, I normally test them and say, listen, do you know a lot about swimming? Oh yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. Alright. I said, I'll tell you, what could you tell me how to do the crazy crocodile? They don't know what the crazy crocodile is, Katrina. Do you know what it is? No. It's the professor splash, swimming stroke. I shall describe it to you and see if you can recognize it, okay. Yes, please. Right, you bend your arm like a boomerang, you stretch it like an Orangutan, kick awhile, turn and smile. That's the crazy crocodile. Fantastic! Yeah, that's the works of Professor Splash. The kids would love that. That would be so entertained by it. They enjoy it and they do it. That's why I say my success rate is very, very high and children learn very quickly. Cause my aim, when anyone comes to me to swim is to teach him to swim in the first five minutes. Wow. That's it? That's always been my target. Five minutes, we learned to swim, get rid of the fear. Then let's get cracking and do some stuff. Five minutes, and you've had great success with that. Put it this way. Most children that I've taught learn to swim within the first half hour, because it doesn't take long because the fear, I know the fear between the nose and the mouth. Well, how long does it take to sort that out? Not long. Oh, wow. I've never thought about it that way. That's great and that's it? It is just sorting out that fear and making them comfortable when then it all falls into place from there. Yeah. Cause than they'll do anything. They'll do anything. That's what I say. So, for instance, this is a point where the teacher can be ridiculous for instance, right? You say, all right, when they reach a certain level that they could maybe do a handstand, right, in the water. You do one as a teacher, but you make sure it looks ridiculous. You lose your balance and all this business, you know. Then you get them to show you and you're applauding. Yeah. I was reading something the other day and it was Gary Vaynerchuk. He's a personal development speaker from America and he was saying things like in his upbringing, his mother overpraised him for things like opening the door for someone else and things like that. And yeah, that's it, it's about giving them confidence in praising them when they do something really well and like you said, if you put yourself out there and look like a bit of a nuff. You can then praise them, and they think they're really special because they've bet the teacher in some way. Yeah, exactly. You know, cause one of the things I tried to do as well, I make a lot of things up. As you can see the crazy crocodile, and all this bit, right. But then equally, now I say to the children, when we go in there, you show me a stroke. They show me a swim and you tell me what it's called. So sometimes they do something, right. I'll look at it and say, what's, this stroke is called, and they say, it's called twisting and turning and then stopping and jumping. And while they're making it up, they're still learning something. Well that's the point you see. And the thing is you're gaining their confidence even more because they feel now that they could show you something, you've added an extra string to their bow. Yep, that's true. I really like that. They think they've taught, taught the teacher. Exactly and that's lovely to see because children love to teach adults, don't they? Yeah and there's so much we can learn from them. I mean, as you said, you learned that kids like to play. There's just so much we can learn from them and their innocence as well. Well this is it, you know, I've always put myself out there as like a children's advocate, because in most cases, they don't always get a good hearing, you know, especially in schools, you don't get chance to say much. So, when you're amongst, and then you give them the opportunity to express themself. Yep, that's right and how much of a better society are we going to have if kids can express themselves in a sport and in things like swimming. You know, there's so many angles on a compass and there's so many different viewpoints that you can hit things from. So, when you let a child out in a situation where they can express itself, I'll let you make some fantastic discoveries, really, you know, the way they've expressed herself. That's right. Very, very true. I like that. I love the way you think with swimming. I just love it. I would say that I really do. I mean, look, professor splash philosophy is this. ‘I'll dry up your tears, take away all your fears and you'll be swimming for years.' Oh, that's fantastic. You must come up with the best one-liners and the best rhymes. You know, as I said, I do love it. There was another one which is called back to the future and it goes, ‘Back to the future back to the past, move your arms slowly, move your feet fast.' Oh, that's so cool. You know, cause you get a feeling of giving the children something that belongs to them, you know? So, when they go home, they tell their parents what they have learnt and in most cases the parents wouldn't know what they're talking about. If they saw it than they would know exactly what's going on, yeah. Yeah, and that's it. I mean, kids using the words and freestyle and backstroke and all those, they're something that's been developed over the years and it, you know, kids are new, they're different. Allowing them to name it as they want just gives them that ownership to it. I like that a lot. Yes, exactly because at the moment I'm working on a book called ‘The Swimming Lessons'. A children's book, yeah. I started writing it before Rastamouse. It's about two teachers that teach in this tropical land and one of them shouts and screams and believes that, you know, to get the children a bit nervous, that'll help her but professor splash, sings and dances and relaxes. It's a story about one particular little boy. So, I'm still working on it at the moment, yeah. Oh, that's fantastic. Oh, well, we'd love to hear when it's all done, and we can promote it for you because that sounds like a great story for a lot of kids. Cause there's no swimming story, you see but what I intend to do with this story obviously is put in some technical stuff but not in a technical way. So, each story would teach a different stroke, but not in a technical, technical way, you know, it's like the first one is about the front crawlers. That's really good and it'll be great to use for Swim School's and things like that. It would be great for kids to learn outside of the water as well. They can learn so much from a story like that. What good work. I can't wait to hear those stories and write them. I'm sure my kids would love them. I'm trying to make them, you know, funny and enjoyable and informative as well. You know, because it's different. I've never seen a swimming story really like as such that will concentrate on the stroke, but be a story as well, yeah. Yeah, I know there's ones that Laurie Lawrence does here in Australia and they're very much water safety, so they bring the rhyming in it and it's great for water safety but as you said, I haven't heard of anything that brings in technique. And then also the story on top. Yeah. So, I'm working on that one, most definitely. So, for you, what does swimming look like in the future? I think sadly in England, it's sort of in decline, really? Because they're cutting back in schools. There is only one-year group goes for one term to swim throughout the year and they don't swim for the whole school. When you reach a certain year, then you go have one semester of swimming. So, to me it looks quite grim for children. I think more people are getting into open water swimming. I think less children are encouraged in swimming at the moment. I feel quite sad about that. Yeah, have you had an increase, or do you think there is an increase in private swim schools or is it just at that age there just not getting involved? Yeah, it's the age really? It's not so much, most of the leisure centres offer swimming lessons, most leisure centres, but as I say, they seem to be in a bit of declined because the amount of children that go to school doesn't reflect the number of children that get the opportunity to swim. Oh, that's sad. I mean, that's something Australia is finding quite difficult as well and we've luckily in a couple of States we have brought in, or they hope to be mandatory swimming lessons, but highly recommended for schools to do swim lessons but again, a lot of them are only over a certain period of time. All primary school levels participate. So at least for a certain amount of time, these kids are getting yearly swimming lessons. And it's unlike that here unfortunately. Only one-year group, I think is year three or year four and that's it. And when you swim than that's the only time and it can be such a wonderful activity. But one of the things I've noticed, the leisure centres charge schools, a lot of money. Oh yeah. They charged them a lot of money, which is really ridiculous, you know? They can just say, listen, if you do a really reasonable rate, then you'd be fully booked. The schools pay a lot, a lot of money for a short session than they can't afford to take everybody. No, that's it. Yep and a lot of schools around here as well, find it difficult because of we'll travel, and the costs and it adds up for schools. Because they would be better to spend money on other things. It would be better to offer sort of more quantity of lessons, I would have thought at a cheaper rate, I would say so. Yeah, definitely. So, looking into the future, how do you think as an individual or an industry, can we promote and develop, learn to swim, and encourage more participants, but with less funding? Maybe you could organize and encouraged families swimming. You're dealing with families and so, their confidence is built up through familiarity. They know the members of the family and, you know, just basic simple things. They can have little bits of information for families and little groups, you know, and you can afford, you know, you don't have to charge the earth for something like that and then you find that less children will necessarily go to paid swimming lessons if people can't afford more but children will still be swimming in the family free swim times. So, I'll say it from that point, it's a bond for the family anyways. Yeah. And what a perfect learning space when you've got the parents and other siblings involved and it doesn't take much to adapt an activity for different levels. No, it does. I've always said, right. Look with swimming, people have asked me, is it more difficult to teach an adult or a child? And the way I look at it is this in swimming, an adult that can't swim me, it's usually like a child, yeah. Yeah. So, you adopt very similar practices and you still have that playful element, but because we still got it in us, you know, so to me, yeah. I just think that there's not much difference when you're teaching people really have to have very similar practices for old or young children or adults really. Yeah, that's right. Yeah and I think also, like you said, with the family swimming, that's something that I know in Australia, they've been pushing as we come out of COVID, it's a lot easier to be able to bring families together and coming out of lookdown, families are looking for that connection that they've built during lockdown to be able to continue it. Yes. You don't have the COVID cross infection if they're all in together. Yes. It's a happier and easier place. Yes. That's pretty much all my questions. Did you have anything else that you wanted to share? Yeah, I was going to ask you. Are there many black swimming teachers in Australia? No, not well, not that I've seen really in all the conferences and things that I've been involved in. In Melbourne it may be different. Oh, okay. Yeah, because this is another thing in England, I think as well. Because there's such a stigma with black people in swimming. I think if we had more teachers that people could look and say, well, look, it's encouraging. I'd like really to teach a group of mixed children from scratch to competitive swimming. I'd like that. Cause I don't think any group should be excluded because it's just human beings. You know, all as human beings, no matter where you're from. That's right. Yeah. And I mean, it's going to benefit everyone. And if you can put those role models out in the system, the other people have gone to see them. Those kids are going to see people experiencing life and experiencing swimming, and they're are going to be more inclined to do it, if they have them role models out there. Most definitely. Because if you look at any country around the world. Certain people around by the sea, no matter where they are. Some people are very comfortable in the water. In a lot of countries, they are comfortable. It might not be a sort of national activity, but he like, for instance, in Sri Lanka, some of those people are very comfortable around the water. Some of them were very, very comfortable, the fishermen, but equally I did hear that. A few of them can't swim as well. I was a bit concerned. I can just imagine. I mean, a prime example of that is where I am here in country, Victoria and Australia. We have a lot of Filipino immigrants coming to work in, we have a lot of piggeries here. So Filipino immigrants are coming over there. Working in the piggeries and one of the girls, her family went to Bondi beach and she got caught up in a rip and she had a bad experience and she wanted to do swimming lessons with me. I said, come on, let's go. And she has a beautiful, absolutely beautiful technique, but she said I can't swim because she'd had a drowning experience. I got her in and she was very, quite scared, but she did really, really well. She came to me a few years later and said, I want to become a swim teacher while I'm at university and I said, well, you have to understand that you can swim, but you have your limitations. She said, well, the facility she wants to work at in Melbourne is sort of waist deep for her. Like the pool doesn't get much cheaper. And I said, well, if you're comfortable with that water and you take the time to learn and develop your skills, and you're great with kids. It'll be absolutely a fantastic career for her. She did and she's gone through, and now she has a waiting list of Filipino families that want to put their kids in with her to learn to swim. Wow, that's fantastic. I just think that whole circle, if I turned around and said to him, no, you haven't got the confidence for it. All the families wouldn't have had anyone that they could relate to, but now she can go in and she can teach those kids and it's making that difference. It's fantastic. You know, it just branches out and it just goes more of a web, to a bigger web, and it's fantastic. Yep. Yeah. You know, and just you encouraging one person can influence so many others. You don't know, those kids can then take it up. And it's a simple thing of, yeah, she's teaching while she's at Uni, but she may continue in it and I'm keen to get her back here to the country, over the holidays to be able to teach some of the other Filipino families here. Yeah, yeah. Yeah. See, those are the sort of groups of things I'd like to work with where a group of people you're ready to teach them something new and it's exciting and fun and, and it's gonna really add something to their lives. I think projects that are very, very exciting. Yeah. Yeah. That's right. Yeah and I think it's just doing it. It's about getting involved and, you know, finding those people and putting the word out there because yeah, if it's not offered, they're not going to do it. No, no. You just go put the flag up there and just advertise itself. I think it's the perfect time. I think people are looking for that sort of diversity now, and the sport's going to need it. Whether you look at the competitive side or not, we need all the involvement we can get and minority groups are the ones that are gonna make me. Yeah. Yeah. And the thing is, it's quite, you know, when you think of like the human resolve, right? You don't know what quarter you might get a champion from, because you've got someone with a determination and they say, right, I want to be the first one or whatever to do that for my community and just that's it. You don't know what's going to come from it. Yeah. That's right. You don't know, unless you try, you don't know what's going to come through and they're going to be a role model for so many other people that come through. Absolutely. You're inspiring me to get in and do more of that. Oh, wow. My aim right. Is to really eventually get our swimming school going again. I had a swimming school once. It was really, really good, very, very successful. It was basically I invited children from the schools that are taught to come to my school and we teach them all the technique, how to stretch out, how to do all these sort of things, but to make sure that they really do love swimming. You don't give them any regime that's going to put them off swimming, you know. That's my aim going forward to get my swimming school up and running again because after speaking to Julie-Anne, I realized that I really, really do love. I mean, really love swimming and want to just make sure that there's a, there is a legacy cause I do love, I mean, I love writing and I do love rust the mouse and I love all that. But swimming is my, is my passion. Yeah and it'll be amazing to have, you know, we don't want your wisdom and your passion to go to waste because how many people can you influence with that. Your writing as you've told us, your writing and your swimming passion have come together, which is great. And to be able to build on that again and have that swim school would be amazing and benefit so many people. Yeah. Yes. Yeah, exactly. Oh, let me just Katrina, let me just tell you one more thing. One little, um, it's a little swimming exercise, right? Yeah. And it's about, you know, when children will not go under water or people want to go in the water and they're a bit worried about it. I've got this little poem it's called bubbles and it goes like this. ‘When you go into water, you must always think, is this something I should drink? If you don't want to cough again to trouble, puffer out your cheeks and blow some nice bubbles.' That's fantastic. Yeah. So, you know, you get those things in your mind, then, you know, what's going on. It's simple stuff and stuff. So relatable. Kids are going to understand that really well. It's not telling them, it's not directing them. It's just making them think. Exactly, Cause you don't want to keep giving instructions, instructions. It's about anything on this earth, right? When you start to think about it, then you start to feel it because it's the thought that ignites the feeling. So, if you say, you know what, I'm really looking forward to this, then you're going to enjoy it. You're not going to approach it with any sort of fear or any sort of trepidation. Your mind is alert. Yeah. That's great. I love that. You need to write a book about these, all these little poems and stories. You've got these tippets. That's going in the Swimming Lesson. That's going in the book. All these different things, all the different elements of learning to swim, the, you know, the floating, the treading water, the different elements that are going to be there, but in a story form. Yeah. I mean, that's, it, there's so much research out there that we learn through stories, our ancestors telling us stories. So, that sort of thing is good to be relatable to kids because they learn from stories. I know my daughter loves to learn stuff from reading books and she comes out with so much information when she's finished reading a novel, to be able to give that to kids, you know, topic related. That would be great. Yeah. Yeah, yeah, no. Well, I'm working on that and you've encouraged me and Julie-Anne is encouraging me. So that's my the next, we'll I'm working on one other book. I'm going to be working on two books in tandem, a little, a little rhyming book and a little swimming book. Cause I've got a little character called a little Brv. Oh, that's fantastic. You know, so could you want to deal with the children from all points of view? Don't, you know, you wouldn't have a little fun because I like the book is about rhyme because basically it's designed the rhymes that put out there. It meant to be recited aloud. So even though you've got them in the book, you've more got them in your head. You know, like all the little nursery rhymes that we have over years and years and years, just trying to write some new, some new, fresh ones. For the modern-day children, you know. Good idea, I like that. Yeah. Something a bit more relatable. Exactly. You know? Cause it what'd you call it a little Miss Muffet. Mary had a little lamb and all that, it doesn't make sense. No. And I don't think parents like it either. I mean, they don't engage with it as much as something that's more relatable to this day and age. Well, that's right. I want to leave you in one, cause I know we got to go soon. I've got to leave you this one, given that we're going through this crisis, this is called health and safety. Yep. Right? And it goes like this. ‘Whatever you pick from your nose, please don't wipe it on your clothes. Please don't flick it on the floor or try to kick it out the door. Please don't roll it in a ball and or try to stick it on a wall. Please don't wipe it on your sleeve. Try to find a tissue please.' That's fantastic. It's a whole book of those. It's a whole book of rhymes like that. So, this it. Just have we got new generation that to inspire them, to do stuff for yourself as well, keep things simple and they can do it themselves. How old are your children now? How old are your children? I have one whose nearly four and a five and a seven-year-old. All right, listen. This is one specially for them, so they can learn it. Yeah, cause you will record it and say it's called message from an ex baby, right? You ready? Yeah, I'm ready. ‘I will tell you why I'm happy. I no longer wearing nappy. I no longer use a dummy ask my daddy or my mommy.' Yeah, you can see if they can remember that. Alright and I'll than record it and send it to you. Indeed and now that'd be fabulous. Oh, they're gonna love that. They're going to think it's great. Inspire so many children out there. Oh, fantastic. Thank you so much for that. You've been absolutely amazing, and I've learned so much and I can't wait to see where you go from here. I think you've got so much potential and so much joy to bring to swimming. I really can't wait to see what happens and I hope you get to fulfil all your dreams and we'll be watching. Thank you very, very much and I really appreciate you offering me this opportunity to actually talk about swimming, as I said, which is something I really, really love some of my, some of our views research Australia before me. Yeah. Yeah. That's right. You're going to have to come over to following them up. Well, you know, I'm not going to refuse that. We need to get you as a guest speaker at our conferences to get us all up with the rhymes. Well I've usually got some free time. That's it. Listen Katrina, thank you very, very much. Thank you. It's been amazing. If it can do something to inspire kids and inspire swim teachers to have more fun and relax, it's just great. Yeah, yeah.
Podcast Interview – Kristy Manton In this episode I speak with Kristy Manton one of the owners of Sweeney's Swim School in Altona in Melbourne, Victoria. Kristy started teaching at Sweeny's Swim School from 16 and after graduating she worked in other facilities where she worked her way up to assistant manager of large-scale aquatic centres. When it came time for her children to learn to swim Kristy took them back to the where her swim teaching career began and four years ago, she was given the opportunity to become a part owner in the Sweeney's Swim School. Kristy achieved her dream of owning her own pool and used the experience she gained in the industry to develop the swim school into a thriving business which emphasis her passion for the industry. A big lesson Kristy learnt through her career is to have patience with people and staff and for her to have the confidence to jump into the idea of owning her own swim school with her husband. She also mentioned that being able to adapt and change especially in this current climate makes life and business a lot easier. Kristy's main personal highlight was purchasing her own swim school and another career highlight was working with a group of Burmese refugee children in a Learn to Swim program where she learnt a number of cultural insights and the program expanded to include adults' lessons. Through the swimming lessons inspired some of the adult participants become swim teachers and lifeguards themselves helping to expand the aquatic industry. Kristy has a number of mentors which have helped her through her aquatic career including the founder of Sweeney's Swim School, Joan Sweeney and centre managers from the other swim schools she worked in over the years. Kristy's parents and family also play a major role in her life offering advice like, ‘Everyone is replaceable'. Going into business with her husband has given her another level of respect for her husband and has elevated their partnership together. When looking for new staff Kristy looks for people who have a love for swimming and for people and kids as well. Kristy believes those wanting to work in care giving service role are a great fit for the aquatic industry. Kristy reminds her staff to remember they are the instructors so they need to take charge of the lesson but to also have the patience to work with children and their parents. She also reminds her younger staff members to have the confidence to take charge and to communicate their instructions through the use of their hands and arms. Staff who want to learn are also impressive and Kristy encourages her staff to learn from each other as well as to continually learn throughout their career. Her staff need to be reliable and consistent in their work as well as loving the work you do. Kristy enjoys having a mix of staff with different communicative styles is great for her business and her clients. Into the future Kristy believes that her clients are looking for a better-quality swimming lesson as they are more informed through technology and education for the parents is also key to her business. Once a month Kristy includes a water safety component in her lessons so it becomes second nature for the swimmers and their families which has been a big bonus to one of her families who's 3 year old child fell into the family pool and was able to float and kick to the pools edge and pull themselves out of the pool. During the water safety sessions Kristy's staff teach a wide range of water safety skills for different environments as their swim school is near the beach and a large lake. Kristy believes promoting swimming as a life saving skill which can give people the opportunity to try other water-based activities into the swimmer's future will be helpful to encourage the public to take part in swimming lessons. She believes children need to have a love for the sport and we have to understand that not all children want to become Olympic swimmers. One of her previous students used her swimming skills to become a lifeguard and work at the Disney theme parks in USA as a lifeguard. During Covid-19 the use of technology has taken over as the key way to keep people and businesses connected and communicating. Kristy remembered joining one of the first ASCTA online meetings where she noticed over 100 swim schools where logged in. It was a great opportunity for the industry to connect and swim schools from all areas and backgrounds where able to learn and share ideas. This is something Kristy believes will make a big impact to the aquatic industry and it is a simple idea we can continue to use into the future to connect the industry more often. These group meetings have help Kristy trough the Covid-19 lockdown by offering support and understanding as she was able to connect with people who where in the same position as her. I would like to thank Kristy Manton for taking the time to share her story with us today and I hope you all learn from her experiences as much as I have. This episode was recorded during the first few weeks of the Australia wide lockdown so some comments relate to actions during this time period. Thank you for listening. Kristy Manton's Contact Information: Email: admin@sweeneysswimschool.com.au Website: https://www.swimminglessonsaltona.com.au/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
Podcast Episode – Carol Fox Interview As an Executive Coach, Conference Speaker and Masterclass Facilitator, Carol Fox has assisted thousands of people in improving their personal and professional lives through building confidence, finding motivation and learning better ways to communicate. For 30 years, she has collaborated with all levels of government, not-for-profit and corporate clients sharing practical, effective concepts from her best-selling book Confident Communication for Leaders. Carol's knowledge base has been bolstered by her time lecturing in two subjects at Victoria University plus a plethora of professional qualifications across science, education and therapeutic fields. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Science, a Graduate Diploma in Education and is currently studying her PhD in Clinical Hypnotherapy. Her influential master's degree thesis, Women's Perceived Barriers to Elite Coaching Positions in Australian Sport, helped to establish Carol as a serious name in leadership and equality issues. This thesis - exploring the apparent social, cultural and institutional pressures placed upon women in top coaching roles - positively impacted the Australian Sports Commission into easing some of these barriers when determining their future policies. Carol is also internationally qualified in Neuro Linguistic Programming, Time Line Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Matrix Therapies and as a celebrant. Further background as Victoria's first professional female surf lifesaver, a state-level swimmer and water-polo player, coaching and even competing against men in ironman competitions has given Carol invaluable insight into the mentality required to be a leader that translates to general life and business. Carol is the President of Women Sport Australia (advocating for gender equality across wages, resources and opportunities) and was chosen to be a baton bearer for the 2018 Commonwealth Games Queens Baton Relay. Carol Fox Contact Information: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolfoxco/ Email: info@carolfox.com.au Website: https://www.carolfox.com/ Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information: Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/ Facebook - Aquatic Mentors Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics
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