04/06/2026
🏊♀️ It's Never Too Late to Learn to Swim - Staff Spotlight Kelly
Most people assume swimming is something you learn as a child. For me, that wasn't the case. I started at Shayne Reese Swimming in November 2020 with very little swimming experience and just enough ability to scrape through my qualifications. I'd never learned to swim properly as a child.
At the time, I was studying a Bachelor of Exercise Science and planned to become a PE teacher. But I loved working at SRS so much that after graduating, I chose to continue doing what I loved rather than pursue my Master's degree.
Back then, I was also a keen runner, having completed several half marathons, a marathon, and an ultramarathon, with plans to keep pushing myself further. However, as my children progressed through their swimming journey and became competitive club swimmers, my focus naturally shifted from my own sporting goals to supporting theirs. I found myself spending less time on running trails and more time poolside.
Wanting to maintain my own physical and mental wellbeing in a way that fit around family life, I began applying the skills I taught my students every day. I taught myself to swim freestyle and backstroke, squeezing in practice sessions between shifts and learning from the guidance and encouragement of some of our experienced teachers.
When I later took on the role of junior coach at my children's swimming club, time became even more precious. Thankfully, I've now found a balance that allows me to fit my own swimming around their training commitments.
What I love most about beginning my own swimming journey is the incredible support and sense of community I've found along the way. It's also given me a whole new level of respect and admiration for my children, my students, and the junior swimmers I coach. Learning to swim as an adult has shown me just how challenging it can be but also just how rewarding.
And now, I've set myself a new goal: completing the Pier to Pub next year.
It's never too late to learn something new, challenge yourself, and discover what you're capable of.
Thanks so much for sharing your journey Kelly! We love having you as part of our team. 🧡💙
