British coaches named on UK Sport initiative
9th November 2011
UK Sport have selected three British aquatics coaches for their Elite Coaching Apprenticeship Programme (ECAP) over the next two years.
Swimming coaches Melanie Marshall (City of Derby) and Richard Blackshaw (Stockport Metro) as well as diving coach Damian Ball (Southend Diving) have been named on the initiative which aims to accelerate the development of High Performance coaches in the UK.
I can’t wait for the programme to begin so I can learn as much as I can.
Coaches will benefit from ‘on the job’ training by working alongside a ‘Master Coach’ from within their sport, while also having access to a Mentor.
“I feel very honoured to be given this opportunity,” said Marshall, who competed for Great Britain at the 2004 and 2008 Olympic Games.
“To be recognised by both British Swimming and UK Sport is great. I can’t wait for the programme to begin so I can learn as much as I can.
“It is a great development opportunity that I’m going to grasp with both hands.”
British Swimming Performance Director Michael Scott added: “This opportunity will provide these up and coming coaches with the ideal opportunity to broaden their knowledge from a sports specific and general principles perspective.”
