Please join me in congratulating one of our newest Assistant Coaches, Alex Bellamy, who was recently nominated for the East Midlands Region Young Volunteer of the Year award. He attended the ceremony in Loughborough alongside other nominees from across all aquatic disciplines — and went on to win his category, a truly fantastic achievement!

Alex has been recognised for his leadership, commitment, and passion for coaching within our sport. Since completing his Level 1 Coaching qualification in January 2025, he has worked alongside me on Friday evenings, supporting beginners and under-14s training sessions. Throughout 2024, he also stepped up to cover several matches, including leading King's school team tournaments, all while still in sixth form studying for his A levels — an impressive demonstration of maturity and dedication.

He will now attend the Swim England National Awards 2025 on Saturday, 29 November at the Great Hall, University of Birmingham. The National Awards celebrate the individuals, groups, and organisations whose passion and contribution have made an outstanding impact across the aquatics community.

Well done, Alex — we’re incredibly proud of you and wish you every success at the national awards!