With over 20 years of experience, I'm a Level 3 Tennis Coach and the SPARTA Coordinator, leading a team of exceptional coaches. My passion for sport fuels my role curating our dynamic weekly program, designed to ignite a love for all sports chosen by our amazing children of all ages and abilities.
Before joining SPARTA in 2013, I played at National level and managed the Junior Tennis development program at David Lloyd in Exeter. I've since played a pivotal role in building SPARTA into one of Bahrain's leading academies.
My mission is to share my love of tennis and witness the joy of development, both in skill and confidence, on the court. I believe anyone can excel in sports with a growth mindset. As the saying goes, "Every pro was once an amateur. Every expert was once a beginner. So dream big, and start now!"
With over 25 years gymnastics coaching experience as well as coaching in gymnastics clubs I have also visited over 900 schools delivering workshops and providing gymnastics displays.
Previous to joining SPARTA I was a competitive gymnast for 22 years, and was a part of the Great British tumbling team which won a silver medal at the 2004 European Championships, followed up with gold at the 2006 European Championships.
I was born and raised in the North East of England and graduated from Teesside University with a Degree in Sports Science & Coaching. During my time as a Volleyball Coach I’ve gained vast experience coaching top level professionals, Olympians and NCAA players including players from USC, UCLA, Pepperdine, Michigan State, University of Illinois and University of Oregon.
I was also the Great Britain assistant coach at the 2012 London Olympics and became England Senior Head Coach in 2015. My coaching has not been restricted to England as I have also coached in many different countries.
During the last 25 years my teams (men and women) have won over 70 National titles at High School and Collegiate level in the UK. I am part of an elite group of coaches who possess the prestigious FIVB level 3 and FIVB setting qualifications.
I am a dedicated and experienced coach who also holds a qualified teacher status in Physical Education. I am passionate about providing sporting opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities. With a background in coaching in various countries such as Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and currently Bahrain, I bring a diverse perspective to my work.
At SPARTA, I lead football, athletics, and badminton sessions, focusing on fostering skill development and a love for sports. As the lead for boys' football, I oversee all fixtures and competitions, including the BSME games, and have also led successful trips such as the annual Spanish football development tour. I am committed to creating inclusive and engaging sporting experiences for my students and athletes.
With 24 years of training in dance under the International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA), I landed a coveted spot at Phil Winston's Theatreworks at 18 years old.
I honed my skills in ballet, modern jazz, tap and musical theatre; this dedication culminated in Musical Theatre Diploma and a Level 4 teaching qualification, showcasing my passion for both performance and instruction.
My passion for dance extends beyond performance. After earning a Level 4 diploma in Ballet teaching, I've dedicated the last 7 years to sharing my love of dance with students in Bahrain.
I am a seasoned sports educator and volleyball enthusiast. Armed with a degree in Physical Education, I’ve spent three years as a PE teacher before transitioning into coaching. Specialising in volleyball and athletics, I serve as assistant coach alongside Coach Dave Goodchild in volleyball and assist Coach Alex in football and Athletics.
With a decade-long journey in volleyball, I boast numerous local medals and led my team to victory in the GCC Volleyball Club Championship in 2017. My passion for sports and dedication to mentoring young athletes make me a driving force in the realm of sports education, inspiring countless individuals to reach their full athletic potential.
Since childhood, I've dedicated myself to the art of dance, embarking on a 26-year journey of training under The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD). Throughout this time, I've immersed myself in various dance styles, participating in exams and competitions for over 20 years.
Expanding my expertise, I transitioned into teaching within the ISTD framework, specialising in Ballet, Tap, and Modern dance. For the past 8 years, I've been sharing my passion for dance with students in Bahrain, guiding them on their own journeys of discovery and growth.
In addition to teaching, I've embraced the creative realm of choreography, crafting dance showcases for students of all ages and skill levels. Alongside my role as an instructor, I continue to fuel my own artistic expression through performance.
Having been involved in Bahrain’s gymnastics scene for over twenty years, I joined SPARTA back in 2021 to assist Coach Glenn with the gymnastics program.
As a qualified Level 2 Gymnastics Coach, I have experience teaching across a broad spectrum of ages and abilities, from complete beginners up to more advanced participants, who I have accompanied to competitions around the region.
Whether it be newcomers or our selected elite squads, there is great satisfaction in helping the children develop new skills and grow in strength and character, whilst enjoying their gymnastics.
My career as a swimmer started when I was 10 years old. I swam competitively until I was 23 years old. I was selected for the Bulgarian National Swimming Team for three consecutive years. I then won the Bulgarian Nationals in age group division individual events, and in age group and adult divisions in team events.
My coaching and aquatics in charge career started in 2003 as an assistant coach whilst at the same time I was still competing. In 2004, I became a certified coach in swimming and aqua aerobics with the Russian association. In 2013 I became a certified coach, STA level 2 British swimming. In 2018, I became a Level 5 Gold certificate certified coach with the American Swimming Coaches Association (ASCA).
In 2013, I joined St Christopher’s School and became the head coach of the St Chris Swim Team in 2014. Shortly after, in 2018, I was promoted to Head of Aquatics. I have organised over 50 Swimming competitions, including 7 charity galas, over 20 Major events with over 200 competitors in each. On more than one occasion I have also organised the largest schools swimming competition in the GCC - BSME Swimming Championships.
For over a decade, Bahrain has been my home, and St. Christopher's my professional base. But my passion for swimming truly began in the pool, where I trained and competed at the national level throughout school and university.
Now, with over 20 years of experience, I've nurtured that passion into a successful career coaching swimmers of all ages and abilities. Leading my own swim schools in the UK further honed my skills, allowing me to develop the high standards of coaching I bring to every lesson.
While competition remains a thrill, my focus has shifted to the open water. I've tackled various biathlons, triathlons, and even Ironman events, proving that the love of swimming can take you to exciting new places (literally!).
Having been involved in competitive swimming from the age of six you could say I have been in the pool environment for a few years. Family and commitments took me away from the pool but for the last ten years, I have been back sharing the joy of water. There is nothing greater than to see the look of success when a child learns a new skill, overcomes a fear, discovers a new sense of confidence or competes and exceeds their personal best time.
I currently hold the ASA level one and two certifications for teaching aquatics as well as ASCA level four which relates to the coaching of competitive athletes.
With over 30 years of multi-sports experience, I'm a retired PE teacher (20 years in government schools and level 4 coach, the Bahraini Olympics committee and Canadian coaching programs).
I was chosen for the Bahrain diving team in 1986 and started camping and competing overseas from 1987 till 1998. I've participated in a lot of competitions in diving and won a Gold medal in 1992, Silver medal in 1994, and Bronze 1996 in the GCC Aqua sports competitions, and participated in both Asian and Arab compeitions.
I started my teaching journey in 1993 in Bahraini Sports Clubs and trained the Bahrain gymnastics team as the head coach of the development program. I went on to receive my B.A. in 1998 and was nominated as the best student overall. I then went on to complete my Master's degree in 2006 in Sports Science and Conditioning.
I started teaching swimming at St Christopher's School in 2003 and I was a coaching conductor in the Bahraini Olympics committee programs.
I am originally from Belarus and have represented my country by swimming in the national junior team. I've obtained "Master swimming of Republic of Belarus" in 1994 (free style 50m and 100m distances) and I've received a first prize and prize-winner of the National Medley Relay competitions in 1993 (free style). I've received numerous first prize-winner of Belarusian Championships and city competitions between 1993 and 1995 (50m and 100m distances). I also received a first price-winner in the National Junior Championship in 1993 (freestyle 50m).
I've participated in complex sports national competitions and international assemblies as a member of the Belarusian National Junior Team. From 1986 to 1996, I've trained at the 'National Junior Sport School of Olympic Reserve'. From 2001-2002, I was a swimming coach at the 'National Junior Sport School of Olympic Reserve.' My coaching career in Bahrain began in 2012, where I joined the British School of Bahrain's Sport Academy. In 2013, I began to coach at St Christopher's school of Bahrain.
I’ve been practising yoga for over 12 years and have been teaching for the last 10.
I have a 200hr Ashtanga yoga certification from Bulgarian Ashtanga academy (Yoga Alliance international registered) and completed training in fitness, aerobic exercises, athletics and yoga vinyasa flow. I’m also a certified personal trainer and sport activities instructor.
Becoming a yoga teacher was an enlightening experience and I want to share that light with others! I believe yoga is the perfect opportunity to be more curious about who you are!
For me yoga is about the balance between strength and flexibility, effort and relaxation, introspection and engagement. So, my classes combine both strength and mobility work in a dynamic Vinyasa flow style. Expect to move, sweat and breathe.
Throughout life I have competed with many teams in various sports from hockey to Equestrian and aquatic , in USA and UK I developed a passion for swimming .
Whilst in school I worked at leisure centres as a pool lifeguard, I have taught all ages of beginners from 3-80 how to swim, I enjoyed the holistic side of aquatics and decided to specialise in Aquaphobia, obtaining level 2 status. I currently hold ASCA level 3 , and swim England level 2.
I am a Royal Lifesaving Bahrain pool lifeguard and Bahrain Olympic Academy Lady’s coaching qualification in sports psychology. I have also completed various CPD courses which complement the successful teaching of swimming. To me personally, there is nothing more satisfying and rewarding than watching a person overcome fears and learn to love Swimming.
From a young age, I developed a deep love for sports, actively participating in school teams and dedicating myself to competitive swimming, representing my county on several occasions. My swimming club provided me with the opportunity to complete my initial swimming qualifications, which was the beginning of my involvement in teaching. I continued my training to become a club coach and subsequently pursued higher education, completing my PGCE in Physical Education at university.
Before relocating to Bahrain, I taught in the UK, where I gained valuable experiences and created lasting memories. For the past ten years, I have been a PE teacher and swim coach at St Christopher’s School. I am fortunate enough to work across the whole school, teaching students from pre nursery to Year 13. I am committed to providing outstanding experiences for my students. One of my greatest joys is witnessing the progress and development of my students as they improve their skills and gain confidence in a safe, fun and enjoyable environment.
During my time in Bahrain, I have furthered my qualifications, achieving my ASCA Level 3 certification and the STA International Baby and Pre-School Teacher Certificate, thereby broadening my specialties and enhancing my ability to cater to a diverse range of swimmers. My continuous professional development reflects my dedication to offering the highest quality of coaching and education to my students.
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