I have more than 20 years developing aquatics in clubs and schools and I have coached youth to national levels.

My swimming journey began in 1982 in Black Lions Swimming Club before rising to swimming and waterpolo captain at Lancing College in 1996. 

I am dedicated to championing aquatics and have been coaching regionally since 2005. My most recent role was at Crawley Swimming Club as Assistant Head Coach and Director of Academy where I led County and Academy squads and grew Academy from 20 swimmers to more than 110.

I’ve been part of the club since 2011, first as a competitive swimmer and now as a coach. Swimming has always been a huge part of my life, and stepping into coaching was the perfect way to stay connected to the sport and help others find the same passion for it.

I’ve coached across a range of squads and love seeing swimmers progress, grow in confidence, and enjoy being part of the team. A highlight for me has been seeing swimmers I’ve coached qualify for County and Regional events and continue to progress through the sport.

What I love most about coaching is the team atmosphere, seeing swimmers support and motivate each other is what makes coaching so fulfilling.

My passion for swimming began at an early age. During the 1980s, I was lucky enough to attend the number one sports school in the UK (Millfield), where I trained and competed at a national level.

I was ranked in the top 15 nationally and competed in the National Championships in both freestyle and butterfly events.

This competitive background, combined with technical expertise and coaching credentials, enables me to bring a wealth of experience, commitment and supportive approaches to the swimmers at RRSC.

I am a competitive swimmer who has had a lifelong love and passion for the sport. Swimming has been a constant presence in my life, shaping my character by teaching me discipline, resilience, and the importance of hard work both in and out of the pool.

I find great joy in sharing my knowledge and experience with others. I enjoy teaching swimmers, helping them build confidence, refine their skills, and reach their full potential. Watching their growth over time and seeing them develop the same passion for swimming that I have is incredibly fulfilling and meaningful to me.

Lara has been a competitive swimmer almost her entire life. Lara made the Olympic swimming trials in backstroke and channels her experience from this into her coaching.

As an assistant coach at RRSC Lara has a Level 1 Coach qualification and is an impressive and accomplished swimmer who is a fantastic role model for young swimmers.

Lara also has a wonderfully supportive and fun approach to coaching and has been coaching development squads at Epsom Swimming Club for several years before coming to RRSC.

I have always had a love for swimming, it has been a big part of my life from lessons to swim club to teaching and now coaching. I enjoy most the atmosphere poolside and the camaraderie of being in a team.

The friendly welcome from the other coaches, swimmers, committee and parents, is a part of what has made coaching for RRSC a joy.  The thing that makes coaching fulfilling is watching the swimmers progress and the fun they have. It reminds me of when I used to swim and compete and keeps me motivated, to keep swimming and delivering fun and engaging training.