Journey into Coaching
Commonwealth Games bronze medalist, Luke Turley, 24, finds immense fulfilment in inspiring and coaching the next generation of swimmers.
Here, Luke will share his journey into coaching.
Luke began his swimming career at Stevenage Swimming Club when he was eight years old, before joining Hatfield Swimming Club. He was educated at the University of Bath and whilst there, in 2022, was selected for the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham where he competed in the men’s 400 metre freestyle and the men’s 1500 metre freestyle. In 2023 at the 2023 British Swimming Championships he won the gold medal in the 400 metres freestyle.
However, following a shoulder injury, which has unfortunately ruled him out of this year’s Olympics, Luke seeked to upskill and reinvent himself, solidifying his experience with the Institute of Swimming’s Coaching Qualifications.
Luke says:
“Swimming has been my life and I am keen to stay in the sport, even if I am no longer able to compete.”
He explains:
“Swimming is a tough, competitive sport and I want to bring both my experience and compassion into coaching the next generation of elite swimmers. I’ve been lucky enough to work supporting the coaching staff at the University of Bath. However, it now feels like the right time to formalise my training. If I am unable to compete at a national/international level then I need to future-proof my career and set a new swimming pathway for myself.“I’ve been lucky to have been supported by some fantastic coaches over the years, and I am grateful for all they have taught me. Being a good coach isn’t just about the technical aspects of swimming, it’s about building relationships, developing confidence and learning valuable life skills. I’m passionate about nurturing and spotting potential talent, and because of my background I can understand the importance of coaching from an athlete’s perspective.”
Since graduating in Sports Science from the University of Bath, Luke has been supporting his competitive swimming training/career by working as a swimming teacher, working in administration for a doctor, and delivering inspirational sports lessons and talks to local pupils.
Luke says:
“Being a swimming teacher is a great stepping stone into coaching, as the Institute of Swimming training gives you great experience and poolside skills. I really enjoy working with children from toddlers upwards. It’s very rewarding and it’s always fantastic to see children overcoming any fear and to see their progression.“However, coaching is really where my heart is heading, so I completed my Swim England Assistant Swimming Coach and then moved to the next level, completing the Swim England Coach Qualification, in June 2024.
“I’ve really enjoyed the training, and have already brought a fresh perspective to my work at the University of Bath. I love how the training progresses, and that we learn how to bring the best out of children, young people and adults, as well as para-athletes. I trust the Institute of Swimming’s Coaching programme and believe its content will help me to become the best coach I can be. It’s a course designed by coaches for coaches, it’s pretty inspiring. I also love the versatility of the course, combining both online and in-person modules.“Coaching feels like being part of an extended family. It’s an honour to support people on their swimming journey. I respect and admire my coaches and aim to offer the same care and dedication to the next generation of swimmers.”