Top Swimming Award For Guildford Mum

Published on: 4 Oct, 2012
Updated on: 12 Oct, 2012

Joan Swain holds her award surrounded by Surrey swimmers

Joan Swain, of Burpham, has received an Aquaforce Award in the category Outstanding Contribution at County and Regional Level, from the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA).

Joan  received her award for her tireless work for swimming in Surrey from ASA South East Region President, Janet Holdstock, in the Holiday Inn, Guildford.

Joan has had a pivotal role in Surrey swimming since 1995, devoting many hours on an unpaid voluntary basis.  Using her skills as an accountant (for JMSolutions), Joan has served two terms as Treasurer to the Surrey County ASA.

She was also President of the Surrey County ASA from 2009-2011 and has been a driving force on the Age Group committee for many years, ensuring that the county’s Age Group Championships run smoothly. Joan also acts as an official at Surrey club and Schools events.

Commenting on Joan’s Award, Diane Gamble, current President of the Surrey County ASA said: “Without Joan, swimming in Surrey and the wider region would be all the poorer.  Her dedication and devotion to the swimmers of Surrey and South East Region is exemplary and she has been hugely supportive to ASA Committee members.

“In particular, during her tenure as President, Joan worked tirelessly to bring about the reunification of Surrey Swimming following the fragmentation that occurred after Regionalisation. From these efforts, it could be said that Joan is almost single-handedly responsible for the current excellent state of swimming in Surrey that we have today.”

Joan commented: “I have always been a keen swimmer and first became involved in Guildford City Swimming Club in 1995, when my three children swam there, as I wanted to do more than just spectate.  Since then I haven’t looked back and I became a poolside timekeeper for competitions, then over the years I took exams to be a Judge, Starter and Referee.

“I was surprised and delighted to receive this award.  I thoroughly enjoy the work I do for Surrey County ASA and would encourage anyone with a love of sport to get involved, however they can.  You put a lot in, but you get so much back.”

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