Ian Pope

Podcast Episode – Ian PopeWelcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk. In this episode I interview an industry professional who has had years of experience in both learn to swim and coaching and has reached the heights of Platinum level swimming coach with swimmers medaling at the Olympics. So please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Ian Pope.While working as a professional musician Ian began his aquatic journey as a learn to swim teacher at the Harold Holt pool and then moved into a coaching role for the Surrey Park club in the early 80’s developing both the clubs learn to swim and squad programs.Ian then moved on to Melbourne Vicentre Swimming Club building a name for himself in coaching. He made his first Olympic Swim Team as coach in 2000 for the Sydney Olympics and continues to place athletes on Olympic and Australian Teams. Over his career Ian has received the award for Victorian Coach of the year and ASCTA Coach of the year numerous times and has coached 50 plus Olympic and World team swimmers. These include swimming greats like Michael Klim, Matt Welsh, Giaan Rooney, Brett Hawke and Grant Hacket. Through today’s episode Ian shares some insights into his journey, sharing thoughts on his career highlight of attending the Sydney Olympics as well as his thoughts on swimming in Australia and where he see’s swimming moving to in the future.Please share what inspiration you draw from Ian’s interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors. If you want to share your aquatic story then please contact me via my email: [email protected] as I know we can all learn from your experience.So, let’s jump in and find out more about Ian’s journey in swimming. Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/Facebook - Aquatic MentorsRegional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.auEmail - [email protected] - Regional Swim Clinics