My swimming journey by Megan Herbert Head Coach

I started competitive swimming at 8 years old.

I always loved swimming and being at a pool when I was younger. Being at training always made me feel relaxed and at home, and the friends i made have stayed with me into my adult life.

The coaches were always fun and friendly, and gave me the skills, strength, and confidence to achieve whatever I desired. Training was also an escape from everyday life, a place to unwind and forget about any worries of the day.

I was encouraged onto poolside at a young age to help with coaching. I immediately fell in love with sharing my skills and knowledge with the younger swimmers and over the years began to help more and more on poolside. I went from volunteer to assistant coach to head coach and I couldn’t be happier. Swimming is my passion and my lifestyle.

Advice to my younger self:

Always give 100%. Even if that day you don’t have much to give, give it all and you'll see the results. Help and support others. And most importantly enjoy every second!

Why I love swim coaching:

I personally had the best experience of competitive swimming. From the friendships to the fitness to the experiences, I loved every second of my journey. Swimming is an incredible sport and I want to be able to show that to as many people as I can. I want to be able to create the same environment I had for others, so that they can enjoy and find a home in swimming like I did.

My favourite stroke:

My best stroke when I swam was butterfly. I think that when butterfly clicks for a swimmer and the technique falls into place, it becomes a beautiful stroke that makes swimmers look strong and powerful. So butterfly will always be a personal favourite of mine!

Kelly Coller Coach

Kelly Coller Swimming Journey 

 Your Swimming Journey: A brief overview of your experience with swimming

Swimming has always been part of my life. I began competing at Chard and District Swimming Club (now Trident) under John Farrant, achieving county titles across two strokes and national qualifying times. I’m proud to now coach at Trident, where my journey began. Swimming is in my DNA, and I’m passionate about creating a space where swimmers can thrive, push limits, and fall in love with the sport.

Advice to your younger self: What would you say to yourself when you first started swimming?

Believe in yourself, trust the process, and embrace every challenge as a chance to grow. 

Why you love swimming and coaching: A personal insight into what makes swimming special to you

Swimming is part of who I am—my mum says I could swim before I could walk! It challenges both mind and body, fostering resilience and confidence. Coaching allows me to share this passion and inspire others to grow both in and out of the pool.

Your favourite stroke: Let us know which stroke you enjoy the most and why

Backstroke is my favourite. I love the power, rhythm, and flow, especially the catch and the relaxing breathing pattern. It’s an unbeatable feeling of strength and precision.