Alan Donlan

• Born: 31 July 1936

Alan Donlan

For almost 60 years, Alan Donlan worked tirelessly as a volunteer and administrator.

He retired from swimming in 2013 having held positions at every level of the sport, including club, county, district and region, culminating in being installed as ASA President in 2007.

His roles were far ranging from club to national level and included North East District Secretary and President, Chairman of Swimming Times, Chairman of the North East Region and ASA President.

Donlan’s primary involvement was in the field of education and he used his vast experience and expertise to enhance the development and administration of the ASA education programme over a 40-year period.

He was appointed to the ASA Education Committee in 1973, a post he held until January 1999 which made him the longest serving secretary of any ASA committee in the history of the organisation.

During this time he was instrumental in developing the national and international reputation behind the ASA education programme.

His lifetime contribution to swimming was recognised by his peers in 2007 when he became President of the ASA, the most prestigious award the sport can give to a volunteer.