Water polo stalwart Norman Leighton retires from Swim England

Water polo stalwart Norman Leighton has confirmed he is retiring from his role at Swim England – but will still remain active in the ‘sport he loves’.

Norman, who is recuperating following a motorbike accident last year, has spent more than 16 years with Swim England as the sport’s talent development officer.

Andy McGinty and Rose Younger, who joined Swim England as cover for Norman while he was off work recovering from his injuries, are to continue in their roles for the foreseeable future.

Norman joined Swim England in November 2006 and he thanked the water polo community for their messages of support.

He said: “I might be retiring from my role but not the sport I love,

“Following my accident last year, and reflection on life’s priorities, I’ve decided that it’s time to hang up my bathers and let others get on with developing water polo at Swim England.

“I’ve had a fantastic time over the last 16 years and I’ll still be involved in the sport, especially with my club which I’m passionately involved in. I’ll still be around as a water polo tutor, too.

Valued team member

“I’m looking forward to seeing everyone as a volunteer or a tutor and want to thank everyone for their support and well wishes, particularly in the last few months after the accident.”

Norman’s contribution to Swim England was praised by the national governing body’s sport development director, George Wood.

He said: “Norman has been dedicated to his role and his enthusiasm for water polo and knowledge of the sport will be sorely missed.

“He has been a really valued member of the team and we wish him well in his retirement.

“We’re still looking forward to seeing him on pool deck as a volunteer, coach and tutor.

“It’s an exciting time for water polo and we believe we have a strong team in place with Andy, Rose and Craig Figes carrying on Norman’s excellent work.”