Joanne is Chairman of Modernian Swimming Club based in Bedford. Catering for all ages and abilities, its primary aim is to ensure each individual reaches their maximum potential in competitive swimming.

She has been involved for over 5 years when her daughter moved from lessons to the squad. About 3 years ago, she was asked to help with some of the admin for junior gala entries etc and was then invited onto the Committee. A year later, Joanne was invited to stand as Chair at the AGM.

As swim21 coordinator and Chair, she was fully involved in the Club's accreditation achievement and continues to play an active role in the junior section. Joanne organises regular local trials with the swim schools in the area and maintains a high profile with the CSP, CSN, SSP's,and SSCo's ensuring Modernian can provide links from lesson and school swimming into competitive swimming.

The Club has realised most benefit in terms of its coaching and Playing Programme. Since achieving accreditation, it is far more organised and the coaching team follow PDPs for personal development. It also has the long term development of athletes foremost in mind, holding regular reviews with each individual.

Joanne encapsulates the essence of Clubmark perfectly. She said,

"swim21 accreditation is absolutely short term pain for long term gain! The Committee, coaches, volunteers, swimmers and their parents now work together as a team!!"