Richard Norman joins Swim England Qualifications board

New Swim England Qualifications board member Richard Norman said the opportunity to contribute to an enormous sporting activity was a key factor in his desire to join the organisation.

Richard, 38, the CEO of SLQ Sports Leaders, an awarding organisation focused on using sport to develop leadership and life skills for young people across the United Kingdom, takes up his role with Swim England Qualifications on Wednesday 1 September.

He has worked with numerous sport national governing bodies and is also a current board member of the recently-established Sport for Development Coalition.

On his new role with Swim England Qualifications, Richard said: “The opportunity to be a small contributor to an enormous sporting activity was a huge draw for me.

“I am passionate about young people gaining lifelong skills and there are few skills as vital as being able to swim, not only for safety, but also to be able to participate in an activity that can support mental and physical health from cradle to grave.

“Swimming teachers are critical to providing those first positive experiences of swimming safely and with confidence and I believe high-quality qualifications must provide the foundation for this.

Encourage future generations

“I hope that my professional experience can support the SEQ team to provide even more opportunities for anyone wanting to use their experience, skills, and personality to engage with Swim England and create those positive first impressions of swimming and encourage future generations of swimmers.”

Richard, who has previously been a qualified lifeguard, says he is a ‘recreational swimmer having reengaged with swimming during an extended period of rehabilitation’.

The dad of two says ensuring his sons Magnus, 5, and one-year-old Atticus are able to swim is a ‘top priority’ and he is relishing playing a key role with ‘passionate’ Swim England Qualifications team members.

He said: “I always enjoy sharing different viewpoints for the betterment of an aim or objective. 

“From what I have seen so far, it is clear that there are many passionate people involved with SEQ and the opportunity to contribute towards this and, ultimately, support more people to engage with Swim England at all levels is hugely exciting, particularly given the restrictions of the past 12-18 months.

“It has shown just how important swimming is to virtually everyone regardless of age or background or ability.”

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