My name is Mark Horrod and I am honoured to be Swim England Hertfordshire President for year 2025-26.
My swimming journey started many years ago.
My daughter was having swimming lessons at our local pool, but got to a point where she could not go any further.
One day we were at the pool and I started talking to one of the club coaches. She mentioned that my daughter may be able to continue her swimming career at the club.
My daughter started swimming at the club, and either my wife or I would watch the session.
Having managed a football club I know what it is like to have no volunteers.
During one session I leaned over the balcony and mentioned to one of the coaches that if he ever wanted help to please let me know. This started my career in swimming.
One evening driving home I said to my daughter something in relation to her swimming, and she replied “you are not my coach”
Those words started my career in coaching, I become a level 1 teacher, then a level 2.
I then qualified as a level 1 coach, then a level 2. I also qualified as a J2S official, and try to help at as many galas as work/home allows me to do.
On a personal level next year sees me employed at my company for 50 years, yet I have not reached my 40s yet….ha ha.
My daughter gets married in November this year, and I am looking forward to this event.
I was a bit surprised to be asked if I would take over the role from Greg, and would like to thank him for the past year. I accepted with thanks and hope to attend as many events as home/work allows.
I would also like to add that my wife, Jeanette, is Swim England Hertfordshire County Welfare Officer.
Mark Horrod.
Hertfordshire County President
March 2025
