The relationship between swimmer and coach is unique.
Olympic, world, European and Commonwealth 100m breaststroke champion Adam Peaty puts it like this: “It’s a combination of your friend, your mum, your coach and your best mate that keeps you in place.
“It’s a lot of things but all in one it’s a person you can look up to, trust, enjoy the time with them and look back and say that was one hell of a journey.”
Mel Marshall has guided Peaty since he was 14 when he walked through the doors at City of Derby, the pair embarking on a pioneering journey at the forefront of sprint breaststroke, one that is set to continue for years yet.
Marshall, herself a world, European and Commonwealth medallist, pays tribute to Peaty’s work ethic, that he will always do as she asks, describing theirs as a perfect partnership.
However, on the flip side, Marshall warns against what she finds unacceptable as a coach, what not to do.
“Not appreciating the journey that they are on.
“Not trying and not giving 100%.
“Not turning up.”
Commitment is key then, as are communication and honesty, things Netherlands lead coach Marcel Wouda expands on.
Wouda, a former 200IM world champion and Olympic medallist, says: “I think commitment is a really weird concept…
