SwimmingSA is pleased to announce the appointment of Edward Adams as the new Pathways Coordinator, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge in both coaching and athlete development to South Australia. A dedicated coach with a strong background in swimming, has spent years shaping young athletes and fostering success at various levels of the sport.
Edward’s journey in swimming began at a young age, when he and his older brother joined Balyanna Swimming Club. His love for the sport was fuelled by a fierce sibling rivalry, with every victory against his brother feeling like a hard-earned triumph. As his competitive swimming career ended, Edward was nearing completion of his high school studies at the time and was looking at alternative pathways to stay in the sport he loved – that passion was found by becoming a coach.
Straight out of high school, he joined Kent Town Swimming Club under the mentorship of Jason Dunlop. Over the next four to five years, he led the Junior and Development programs, helping many swimmers achieve their first state qualifying times, as well as competing state finals and earning themselves medals. His expertise and ability to nurture young talent soon took him to Norwood Swimming Club, where he worked alongside Shaun Curtis.
At Norwood, he initially led the Hill Squad Program, which focused on swimmers training and achieving national qualifying times. His dedication and coaching acumen led him to a role of running the National Age Program, where he successfully helped swimmers achieve national finals and medals.
In a bold career move, he relocated to Perth after receiving an opportunity to lead the GK Swimming Club. Despite initial hesitation, he took on the challenge, knowing that stepping out of his comfort zone would contribute to his professional growth. During his tenure, he significantly elevated the club, leading it to win both Swimming Australia’s Club of the Year and Swimming WA’s Club of the Year. Under his guidance, the club produced two National Open finalists, marking a significant achievement in a short span of time.
Edward holds a background in Exercise and Sport Science – currently studying at UniSA, with a keen interest in biomechanics and exercise physiology. Though he has a few subjects left to complete, his studies have provided him with valuable insights into athlete performance and development.
Outside of swimming, he is an avid gym-goer and golf enthusiast, always striving to outplay his father on the golf course.
In his new role as Pathways Coordinator for SwimmingSA, Edward will focus on creating development pathways and providing opportunities for swimmers to thrive in the sport, across the state. His extensive coaching experience and wealth of knowledge, coupled with his current tertiary studies, makes him a perfect fit. SwimmingSA is confident that Edward’s leadership will inspire the next generation of swimmers and strengthen the sport’s foundation in South Australia.
With a career defined by dedication, innovation, and success, Edward Adams is set to make a significant impact in his new role, shaping the future of swimming in South Australia.
