|
You are here: Home >> About ASC >> Media & Public Relations >> Media releases |
TOP USA SWIM COACH JOINS AIS14 March, 2002 The AIS has continued its tradition of employing excellence by appointing world-class coach Pierre Lafontaine to its swimming program. Lafontaine's last position was as head coach of Phoenix Swim Club in the US. The club was responsible for producing eight swimming medals at the Sydney Olympics and included high profile swimmers Gary Hall Jnr and Anthony Ervin, who tied for first in the 50m freestyle. Considered to be one of the world's top coaches, Lafontaine says he is delighted with the opportunity to work at arguably the best sporting institution in the world. 'The AIS is regarded throughout the world as being at the forefront of elite athlete development,' Mr Lafontaine said. 'I consider it a great honour to be joining the AIS and I'm looking forward to working with the other great swimming coaches at the Institute, contributing to the enhancement of its excellent swimming program.' AIS Director Michael Scott said Lafontaine's appointment came from a field of world-class national and international candidates. 'The quality of applicants emphasises once again how highly the AIS is regarded both in Australia and throughout the world,' Mr Scott said. 'Pierre's vast experience as a coach at the top level of international competition will be a tremendous asset to the AIS Swimming Program, which has proven itself to be the cradle of Australia's swimming success. 'The reality is that to be internationally competitive in the fierce world of sport in 2002 and beyond, athletes must have a high level of service. The AIS continues to deliver world best practices across all areas and disciplines, including having the world's best coaches.' The appointment has also been welcomed by Australian Swimming. 'Pierre's experience in the US club system, which culminated in an outstanding result by his swimmers at the Olympic Games, will add value to the development of the Australian swim team,' Australian Swimming CEO Glenn Tasker said. The AIS Swimming Program, funded by the Federal Government through the Australian Sports Commission, provided 17 members of the all-conquering Australian team at last year's World Championships, contributing six of the 14 gold medals won. The AIS is a major program of the Australian Sports Commission and this year is celebrating 21 years of excellence.
|
 |
 |
|
|
|
|
|