13/09/2026
Inspirational day at the Swim Wales National Conference at Pentre Awel Leisure Centre in Llanelli.
I always enjoy attending conferences, especially our National Conference for the presentations, the opportunity for networking, and learning from National Coaches, Club Coaches, Club officials, Swimming Teachers, Leisure operators, and our National Governing Body. It was my first visit to the new facility in Llanelli today also, fantastic venue.
I had the privilege to start the day on the Conference Panel discussing the importance of being 'Exceptional at every stage of an athlete's journey', which was a theme continued throughout the whole conference. To sit alongside alongside Alys Thomas OLY Swim Wales Development Coach & Pathway Manager, and Graeme Antwhistle Swim Wales National Squad Coach to share our experiences from various stages of swimmer development was an incredible experience and I'd like to extend a sincere thank you to Swim Wales for the opportunity.
Through the Conference Swim Wales catered for everyone with a variety of discussions. I attended the sessions aimed at Coaches including:
*Pannel Session: 'Exceptional at every stage of an athlete's journey'
*Coaching Mindset: Maximising time with your athlete's - Dr Ross Nicholas National Performance Director
*Changing mindsets & advocating the right to play your way - Dr Michaela James, Swansea University
*Mentoring CPD - Lizzy Campbell,
UK Coaching
*Foundations and FUNdamentals: Developing
Basic Skills Required for Competitive
Swimming (Classroom Pre-Pool Session) -
Graham Wardell and Dai Thomas
*Foundations and FUNdamentals: Developing
Basic Skills Required for Competitive
Swimming (Pool Session) -
Graham Wardell, Dai Thomas, & swimmers from local swim teams.
The pool session with Graham Wardell was superb. Love watching Grahams energy and coaching expertise.
Thank you to everyone involved in the running and delivery of the Conference, and to all of the attendees for your time and conversations.
If anyone wants to catch up and discuss any of today's information further, discuss my programme, or even just to discuss Coaching in general, you are more than welcome to reach out and/or visit anytime.
UK Coaching
Sport Wales
Newport Live
City of Newport Swimming and Water Polo Club
