Coaches

All of our coaches are ASA certified and are here to help you achieve your swimming goals and dreams. Whether you’re learning to swim for the first time or wanting to work on your technique or stamina, we’re here for you.

Bob - Coach

Born in Kokstad, South Africa

Bob spent his childhood swimming competitively, gaining his national school colours and setting records in butterfly & freestyle that have stood the test of time.  As well as being a Pro Lifeguard for almost two decades on the beaches of the Indian Ocean, Bob took part in four South African lifesaving championships.  He was also highly regarded in water polo teams, competing alongside the top- ranked professionals of the day. 

Bob loves (and is very good at) all types of sport and worked as the Sports Coordinator of a 5-star International Hotel for many years.  He’s a keen amateur golfer and regular squash player who enjoys interacting with people of any age.

In recent years Bob owned an extremely successful Street Food business in Cambridge and (in semi-retirement) has relocated to Southport, qualified as an ASA Level-Two Swimming Teacher and now set up the Southport Aquatic Academy

Jan - Admin and Coach

Born in Johannesburg, South Africa

Jan has loved all sports from school age but really excelled at athletics and hockey. She gained school & county colours in both sports; played U21 hockey at National Level and 1st league for the A-Team of a top club.  She’s also a keen golfer and has run dozens of 5-km fund-raising events over many years.

As our Administrator, Jan brings a wealth of creative and professional skills to the team.  

She has also gained ASA Level-One Swimming Teacher status so she can be on hand for any lessons.

Saris - Coach
(Currently on Leave of Absence)

Born on the East Coast of Africa. (KwaZulu Natal)

Saris learnt to swim in the Indian Ocean and recalls as a child having to regularly swim out to the “Shark nets” for training with local school teams.  A keenly competitive swimmer throughout her time in South Africa, taking part in many open water events.  She moved to England at the age of 14.

Saris spent ten years in the fitness industry working her way up from Instructor to Health Club Assistant Manager.  After 7 years within the childcare industry working as a nursery nurse, an appointed safeguarding officer she left to become a full time Mum.

Her experience within the fitness/childcare industries along with a lifelong passion for swimming has now led her to become an ASA level two Swimming Teacher. Saris very quickly realised that her love for swimming and teaching was something that was in her DNA and has now set up the Southport Aquatic Academy.

Saris trains competitively three times a week and enjoys open water event such as the Great North Swim. Her ambition is to swim the English Channel.