In 2012 (the Late and much-missed) Eva Salisch invited me to visit Halliwick Penguins Swimming Club at Southgate. They were looking for volunteers willing to assist swimmers in the water.
I have been volunteering ever since and have also completed the Halliwick Association of Swimming Therapy’s Halliwick Foundation Course and Advanced Course.
I am extremely proud to be a Halliwick Instructor. It is very gratifying, giving club members an opportunity to enjoy the water, regardless of age, mental or physical ability.
I enjoy their smiles and laughter; a true playground in water. This is especially important for our members who are wheelchair users or do not have the ability to swim independently.
I’m not all sweetness and smiles though! When I can, I put swimmers through their paces and the competitive swimmer in me surfaces! I challenge and push them and really enjoy seeing their improvements and accomplishments.
I was delighted to be elected as the club’s Chief Instructor at the club’s 2023 Annual General Meeting, and I know that I have a lot to live up to following Janet Jones BEM, who filled the roll faultlessly for many years!
I was also honoured with the club’s ‘Penguin of the Year’ Award in 2023, and I am pictured here [right] with Sally Hennessy [left], who presented me with the award.
Halliwick Penguins Swimming Club 