The Gallagher Chiefs – understanding the importance of swimming

For more than three years, the Gallagher Group has been the Principal Partner of Swimming Waikato, sharing in its vision of ‘Swimming for Life’, and providing funding which allows Swimming Waikato to deliver swimming development opportunities in schools and clubs throughout its region.

The Gallagher Group is also a proud supporter of rugby in the Waikato and the newly named Gallagher Chiefs.

Gallagher’s support of these two organisations has initiated a new partnership that will promote the importance of learning to swim – even in adults.

As part of the build up for the 2016 season, Head Coach Dave Rennie is offering members of his squad the opportunity to learn to swim, with lessons being delivered by St Paul’s Swimming Club’s Head Coach, Graham Smith.

Dave is a big supporter of swimming and understands how it can support athlete development.

“Swimming builds great aerobic fitness, is kind on joints, aids with injury recovery and helps with flexibility,” says Dave. “And more importantly, it’s a crucial life skill and all New Zealander’s, old or young, should have the opportunity to learn to swim.

“Our squad is made up of a group of great athletes but many of them don’t have the skills that they need to stay safe in the water. Our partnership with Gallagher and Swimming Waikato will allow us to rectify this.”

The programme for the Gallagher Chiefs kicked off on Monday the 11^th of January 2016.