UP-AND-COMING Central Belt swimmers enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime afternoon with Olympian and Double Commonwealth Champion Hannah Miley when she delivered a coaching session this past Saturday (5 August).

Miley, who has just returned from her 5th World Championships in Budapest, worked with the budding amateurs on their stroke technique, turning skills and more at the Tryst Centre in Cumbernauld.

The event, which was supported by Miley’s main sponsor legal firm Watermans, also saw her discuss her illustrious career to date and deliver advice on how nutrition and a positive mindset can elevate an athlete.

All 20 swimmers in attendance were from amateur swim clubs in the nearby area with Stirling Swimming, Balfron Barracudas, Scotia ASC, Airdries & Monklands SC and Kirkintilloch and Kilsyth ASC taking part.

Hannah, who has previously hosted Watermans masterclasses in Aberdeen and Falkirk, is excited by the prospect of coaching. “I love hosting these sessions and, in a fun way, I really want to show that whilst putting in the hours in the pool is important, there’s so much more to it if you plan to succeed at the top of the sport.

“It’s great to work with kids at this age because attitude and commitment are more important than athleticism when you’re in your early teens. If I managed to get that message across then it should stand them in good stead for the future.”

Scott Whyte, Managing Director of Watermans, said: “Hannah’s work ethic has been pivotal to her success at the elite level of swimming and we think it is important to provide a platform to pass on her experiences and knowledge to potential future stars. She is passionate about helping Scotland’s next generation and the chance to spend some time in the pool with Hannah could prove invaluable to them going forward.”

Adam Hill, a 10-year-old swimmer who attended with Stirling Swimming, said: "Hannah has achieved so much in her career and she’s a real role model of mine. It was an incredible experience to spend time working with her and I’ve learned so much from it. It’s been a fun day and I’ll never forget it or all the advice she’s given me!”

Miley has gained the qualification standard required for the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia next year and now awaits final selection to be confirmed by Team Scotland at the end of this summer.