Canterbury Para-Swimming Clinic

Canterbury Para-Swimming squads rounded out a successful year with a Para-Swimming Clinic last weekend in Christchurch.

With the support of Paralympics New Zealand Development Coach, Gary Francis, 11 Para-Swimmers from the region took part in several training sessions learning new skills and drills.

There were five training sessions held throughout the weekend; three sessions were targeted at the competitive squad (who are training in squads and competing) and two sessions for the development squad (who are in the early stages of their skill development).

As well as the clinic being of great benefit for the swimmers it was a great opportunity for Gary to see up close what is happening in the Canterbury region for Para-Swimmers and for coaches and parents to hear from Gary about the Paralympic Pathway.

The weekend also allowed for coaches Kanye Tukapua, Ben Close and Brigitte Mahan to work alongside Gary and share ideas while working with the swimmers.

“The feedback from the weekend was really positive and a great way to conclude a very successful year for the Canterbury Para Swimming Squads,” said ParaFed Canterbury Sports Manager Hadleigh Pierson.

“Special thanks to Paralympics New Zealand and the PNZ Cyril Smith Legacy Fund for making the weekend possible.”

Canterbury Para Swimmers: Competitive Squad - Celyn Edwards (Selwyn), George Adam (North Canterbury), Ella Benn (Waitaha), Ieuan Edwards (Selwyn), Grace Johnstone (North Canterbury), Lily Wildbore (Aquagym), Zoe McKinlay-Clark (North Canterbury). 

Development Squad - Amber Proudfoot, Sarah James, Stella Trebilco, Rorie Poff.

Coaches - Gary Francis (Paralympics New Zealand), Kayne Tukapua (Hamner), Ben Close (Selwyn), Brigitte Mahan (North Canterbury).