This weekend, the Great Hall at the University of Birmingham hosted the 2024 Swim England National Awards, bringing together the regional winners from all eight regions to celebrate the very best of our aquatic community. Having secured top honours at the North West Regional Awards, our nominees joined their counterparts from across the country to discover who would be crowned national champions in their respective categories.
The North West performed exceptionally well on the national stage, proudly bringing home six awards across a range of disciplines and achievements. Full details of all winners can be found on Swim England’s website — click here.
Please see below details of our Regional Award Winners:
Inspiring, dedicated, and full of heart – this young man is the driving force behind ORCA’s poolside spirit. As Club Captain, he leads with empathy, lifts others with his energy, and brings unity to every session. From guiding young swimmers and supporting coaches to mentoring new volunteers, He is hands-on, humble, and always ready to go the extra mile. His passion is infectious, his commitment unwavering, and his example one that motivates everyone around him. A true role model – this individual is everything a young volunteer should be.
Bronze Award – Harry Elson, ORCA
This individual is a calm, confident leader who ensures every swim meet runs smoothly and fairly. His expert officiating—from local meets to national qualifiers—earns him well-deserved praise. As a mentor, he inspires and supports new officials, helping to grow a strong, positive community. His dedication, leadership, and passion make him a true pillar of the swimming world and a deserving recipient of this award!
Gold Award – Matthew Lyons, City of Liverpool SC
This individual is the beating heart of the club. As Chair, Coach, Judge, Team Manager, and mentor, her unwavering dedication has transformed the club into a thriving, inclusive community. She champions female health, fosters resilience, and ensures every swimmer feels seen, supported, and inspired. From launching retention-boosting academy schemes to providing 1:1 support, initiating menstrual health conversations, and running novice competitions, she creates opportunities for all. Despite facing personal health challenges, she continues to lead with passion, positivity, and purpose. Her vision, energy, and tireless efforts have not only shaped her club—but have inspired the wider aquatic community.
Gold Award – Nikki Rowney, Denton Artistic Swimming Club
This coach is the driving force behind the Club’s National Age squad—bringing energy, clarity, and joy to every session. With his fun, focused coaching and unwavering support, he’s helped swimmers grow in confidence, smash personal bests, and chase national dreams. Loved by kids, trusted by parents, and respected by all, he is a role model who makes swimming exciting, challenging, and rewarding. Calm, committed, and quietly brilliant – he is an unsung hero who truly deserves the spotlight.
Silver Award – Liam Selby, Stockport Metro Swimming Club
From humble beginnings in a small town, this Club has truly punched above its weight. Despite losing their beloved head coach earlier this year, this inspiring female-led team rallied together with unwavering passion and determination. The club qualified for their very first National Arena League Final, having won the North West Arena League, and have produced the highest number of British qualifiers in the club’s history. This remarkable journey is a testament to resilience, community spirit, and the power of teamwork.
Gold Award – Winsford Swimming Club
A duo from Ric Howard’s Bolton Metro squad made a strong impression in 2025. Georgia Sheffield returned to the British team, securing consecutive World Para Swimming Championships bronze medals in the Women’s S14 100m Backstroke and playing a key role in the successful defence of the Mixed S14 4x100m Freestyle title. Meanwhile, Mark Tompsett broke his own British record in the Men’s S14 100m Backstroke at the Aquatics GB Swimming Championships, earning his spot for Singapore 2025 and adding valuable experience on the world stage.
Gold Award – Ric Howard, Bolton Metro Swim Squad
Swim England North West Regional staff, Regional Chair and Board of Directors would like to congratulate all our Regional and National Award Winners and Nominees for 2025, and would encourage clubs and their members to begin thinking about their nominations for the 2026 Awards. Nominations typically open around March/April each year, so keep your eyes peeled!
