FAST welcomes dynamic new head coach

  FREDERICTON - The Fredericton Aquanauts Swim Team is pleased to announce the hiring of Sam Barkwell as its new head coach.

The 26-year-old has been involved in swimming as an athlete since 2004. He has been coaching since 2016 and recently completed his NCCP Level II coaching certification. He has worked with both large and small teams across Ontario and British Columbia, where he is head coach of the Columbia Shuswap Selkirks Swim Club in Salmon Arm.

“Sam has a proven track record of developing swimmers of all levels, and a deep commitment to fostering a positive team culture,” said FAST President Andrea Addison. “We are thrilled to have found a coach whose values, experience, and enthusiasm fit so well with FAST’s mission to help our swimmers succeed as both athletes and citizens.”

This past season Barkwell’s club increased enrollment by 20 per cent and qualified athletes for the Speedo Western Canadian Championships for the first time since 2019. Previously he spent four years as assistant coach at the Golden Horseshoe Aquatic Club in his native Hamilton, Ont. His experience includes directing learn to swim programs and developing nationally ranked high performance athletes.

“I take a holistic, people-first approach to coaching, creating a personal rapport and partnership with athletes. My goal is to make fast swimming fun for all age groups and I’m always driven to find new and exciting ways to keep time in the pool engaging and enjoyable for all,” Barkwell said.

Barkwell will assume the role on Aug. 1. He will replace Marta Belsh, who is leaving the club to focus on her role with the University of New Brunswick Reds program. Belsh was a key part of the hiring process and will remain available as a resource as Barkwell transitions into the club.

“I’m very excited to see this new chapter for the team,” said Belsh, who has been head coach since 2008.

“We are indebted to Marta for her 15 years of dedication developing FAST into one of the leading competitive swim teams in Atlantic Canada,” Addison added. “Her commitment to the sport and dedication to our athletes has created an environment where our swimmers strive for excellence both in the pool and in their lives outside of the water.”