Swim England North East has partnered with Working with Parents in Sport (WWPIS) to launch a groundbreaking initiative aimed at developing support for athletes, parents, coaches, and club management across the region. This collaboration marks a significant step in fostering a more connected and supportive environment within the aquatics community.
The first session of this new partnership took place this week, delivered virtually to club parents involved in various forms of aquatics. This initial session set the stage for a comprehensive programme that will span the course of the year, featuring tailored support and resources for all stakeholders in the sport.
A Year of Learning and Development
Over the next 12 months, a series of sessions will be conducted for club management, coaches, and parents at different levels of the sport. These sessions will be a mix of virtual and in-person events, with WWPIS CEO Gordon MacLelland delivering live talks at select North East Super Camps.
An integral part of the initiative is a dedicated club pilot programme. This pilot will involve on-the-ground sessions within clubs, utilising the expertise of WWPIS to provide customized resources for the entire club community. The goal is to create a sustainable and impactful support system that benefits athletes both in and out of the sport.
Future Ambitions for 2026 and Beyond
Looking ahead, Swim England North East and WWPIS have ambitious plans for the programme beyond its first year. After evaluating the initial impact, the organisations aim to expand the initiative further, maximising its effectiveness and reach to ensure long-term benefits for all involved in aquatics across the region.
WWPIS CEO Gordon MacLelland expressed his enthusiasm about the project, stating, “This is such a positive project to be involved in. I have always believed that it is the people that you work with that help bring visions into reality and make meaningful change. The leadership of Louise Graham has been instrumental in that, and we are really looking forward to seeing where this project takes us.”
Head of Aquatics at Swim England North East, Louise Graham, echoed his sentiments, saying, “It’s great to be working with Gordon and his team. They are industry leaders in this field, and our aquatics community can access all of this year’s activities for free. We are really passionate about supporting our members and their families by investing in this project as part of our new strategy.”
A Transformative Collaboration
This partnership represents a significant investment in the future of aquatics in the North East. By bringing together expertise from WWPIS and the strategic vision of Swim England North East, the project aims to enhance the experience of young athletes and their families, ultimately helping them achieve their full potential both in and out of the water.
As the initiative progresses, both organisations remain committed to evaluating and refining their approach, ensuring lasting benefits for the entire aquatics community. With strong leadership and a shared vision for positive change, this collaboration is set to leave a lasting impact on the sport for years to come.
