Following a global search, Mount Kelly is delighted to announce the appointment of Emma Collings-Barnes as the new director of swimming. Emma, who has medalled at international level, started her coaching career in 2002. Beginning at Loughborough, Emma went on to coach at Millfield School and in 2010 was appointed Head Coach at Rushmoor Royals Swimming Club. Emma joined the coaching team at Mount Kelly in 2012 and is currently the Assistant Director of Swimming.
Mark Semmence, Head Master and Principal of the Foundation, commented: “Emma was the stand-out candidate from a very strong field of applicants from all over the world. The swim programme at Mount Kelly is stronger than it has ever been, with our swimmers enjoying unprecedented success. These are exciting times for Mount Kelly swimming, and I am delighted to have Emma at the helm.”
Mount Kelly’s 144-strong squad currently includes European Junior Championship qualifiers, Federico Burdisso and Kaylee Dekker (Federico having also qualified for the European Senior Championships) as well as Isle of Man Commonwealth Games swimmer, Niamh Robinson. Also training in the squad are GB Youth International Athletes Sam Dailley, age group record holder (13, 14 and 15 years) Oliver Taverner, and Nepal’s Gaurika Singh, one of the youngest swimmers at the Rio Olympics.
In para-swimming, Lily MacLeod is an S13 British record holder and World Class podium member and is hoping to follow in the footsteps of Mount Kelly’s past Paralympians, including Claire Cashmore, Lauren Steadman and David Hill.
Emma added: “It is a huge honour and privilege to be appointed Director of Swimming at Mount Kelly. I look forward to shaping the programme for 2018 and beyond with the assistance of the coaching and support team. Mount Kelly provides an unparalleled environment for our swimmers allowing them to excel as athletes in the pool whilst achieving their academic potential in the classroom.”
