| Can you explain your role within the team? |
Working with Alexandra Rickham and Niki Birrell, supporting them in their campaign for a Gold Medal at the 2012 Paralympic Games |
| How did you get involved with the team? |
Originally as a sailor in the Tornado Catamaran which used to be an Olympic Class. |
| How did you start coaching ? |
I started as an Assistant instructor at 14 in Eastbourne, at a Watersports Centre Called Spray Water Sports. Whilst Campaigning in the Tornado I started to coach Junior and youth classes when I could. In 2008 I started coaching full time. |
| Can you explain what a normal day coaching involves? |
No day is the same, but they all seem quite long! Time is always precious, but most days start with a plan, have a practical bit and finish with a review. |
| You must work with very driven people 24/7 – what’s your approach. |
Question, Question, Question. Driven people are very determined in their nature. To ensure we cover the right things and prioritise correctly I make sure we are asking the correct questions. |
| If someone has underperformed what’s the best way to get him or her back on track? |
Get them back to their processes. We spend months working on the processes to ensure that when racing under pressure the team boat stays on task. Under performing is often a result of slipping off task – the sailors processes are well practiced and will get them back on track. |
| If you weren’t a coach what else would you be? |
Sailing something |
| Best moment in your career so far? |
Alexandra and Niki becoming 2011 World Champions in the Skud at the Paralympic Venue with a day to spare. |
| What’s your greatest fear or phobia? |
Drowning |
| What would you love to do but never have the time or money for it? |
Windsurf more, but never have the time. |
| What’s your worst habit? |
Leaving wet things in the back of my van!!!!! |
| Name 3 things that are always in your shopping trolley? |
Coffee, Sweet Chili Sauce, a good DVD |
| What was the last book you read? |
Kelly Holmes Autobiography |
| What’s your favorite boat to sail? |
Tornado Catamaran with the Carbon rig, closely followed by an 18 ft Skiff |