News & Media

Dec 14th

Coaches Celebrate Long Service to Guildford City

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Great people make Great Clubs

Guildford City has successfully developed over many years to become the thriving club that it is today. Clearly a great part of our success has been due to the longevity of members of staff who have made significant contributions over the last several decades. They have given Guildford City essential stability in a sport that generally suffers from a constant turnover of coaching and teaching staff.

Steve Wadey’s impact has been immeasurable, dedicating over 25 years into the development of Guildford City and helping transform it into one the top clubs in Great Britain.  Steve’s technical brilliance has helped develop some of the best swimmers the club has ever produced, swimmers who have gone on to succeed at the highest level. He continues to inspire our coaches, sharing his knowledge on poolside, delivering CPDs as a qualified ASA Tutor. Steve’s love and passion for the club is now seen in the Academy where he uses his skills to help develop the next generation of talented Guildford City swimmers.  

Paul France has also been a dedicated Guildford City coach for over 25 years, his initial involvement with the club was through his own children’s swimming careers.  Paul starting as a volunteer before undertaking his teaching and coaching qualifications and has helped develop thousands of children as they take their first steps into competitive swimming; mentoring and encouraging them in their quest to achieve their goals and learn vital life skills.  Paul is currently Lead Coach of our Junior Competitive Development Squad as well as Assistant Coach at Tormead School.

Jo Tierney also starting off initially as a parent volunteer before undertaking her swimming and teaching qualifications and she has also dedicated over 20 years to Guildford City.  Jo’s hard work, passion and care of every child has enabled so many of them to reach their potential. Jo has been both Assistant and Lead Coach of High Performance Squads which has led to the successful development of both National Champions and International representation, she has also inspired countless swimmers over the last decade to become involved in open water swimming. Jo’s love for Guildford City has seen her step in selflessly whenever the club has been in need, be that through covering sessions, organising Open Meets, officiating at meets or running the electric scoreboards.

Director of Swimming Richard Garfield stated

“Steve, Paul, and Jo are part of the DNA of Guildford City. We are so fortunate that they are leaders in our club and continue to deliver their sessions with passion and expertise.

 Great people make great clubs!”