Surf sport coaches play a crucial role in developing, inspiring and leading athletes to achieve their goals within Surf Life Saving. Each fortnight we'll be profiling some of the incredible coaches from around NSW and finding out their tips and tricks and what they enjoy most about being a surf sports coach.
Jim Walker, North Bondi SLSC
Coaching Discipline:
Ski.
Brief coaching background:
- NSW SLSA Head Coach 2017-2020
- Australian U/23 Kayak Head Coach 2005-2007
- NSW Institute of Sport Kayak Head Coach 2005-2008
How and why did you get started in coaching?
I started coaching so I could try and share what I had experienced from racing. Also to help build brighter futures for young people through training and racing.
What has been your biggest coaching success?
There have been a number. Coaching athletes to be able to compete at the Olympic Games, winning national championships but most of all, seeing people better themselves.
Who or what has had the biggest influence on your coaching career?
No one person. I like to look at lots of people both from within and outside my sport.
What sort of recovery methods do your athletes undertake?
Nutrition, ice baths, recovery weeks and time away from the sport.
How important is technique work in training for your athletes?
To me it is the most important thing.
How do you go about keeping your athletes motivated?
I like to change my and the team’s focus for each year and work on new things that match the level of knowledge they have gained. I also like to reinforce the journey of sport and the adventures along the way.
What do you enjoy most about coaching?
Seeing people better themselves and seeing good outcomes achieved through hard work.
What are three pieces of advice you would pass on to aspiring coaches?
Do the right amount work that is required for the level of athlete you are coaching.
Never sit still and ask lots of questions.
The better you try to be the better your athletes will be.
Wednesday 12 August 2020