The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) today announced that former Chandler swimming head coach Drew McGregor will join the Institute’s swimming program coaching team.

McGregor comes to the AIS as a very-well respected figure in swimming circles having been head coach of the highly regarded and successful Chandler swim club in Queensland from 2004-10.

McGregor has coached state, national and world champion swimmers including Jade Edmiston who was a former world record holder in the 50m breastroke.

McGregor, who was named Australian Disability Coach of the Year in 2009, said he was excited by the opportunity to coach at the AIS with its world-class athletes, facilities and support.

‘The AIS is regarded throughout the world as being at the forefront of elite athlete development and the Institute’s swim program is testament to that reputation,’ McGregor said.

‘I’m looking forward to the opportunity of working alongside top quality AIS swim coaches in Shannon Rollason, Tracey Menzies and John Fowlie in the development of talented elite swimmers.

'I hope my skills and experience can help them achieve future national and international success.’

AIS Director Professor Peter Fricker said the appointment of McGregor continued the Institute’s tradition of employing excellence.

‘Drew possesses tremendous knowledge and experience and I’m sure he will help our group of talented swimmers reach their potential,’ Professor Fricker said.

‘What he achieved in his coaching career at the Chandler swim club will be the perfect springboard for his future endeavours at the AIS.’

‘The AIS, through the partnership between the Australian Sports Commission and Swimming Australia, continues to help strengthen Australian swimming through the development of talented young swimmers.’

‘The Institute’s proud record of developing swimmers such as Petria Thomas, Michael Klim, Brenton Rickard, Nicole Livingston, Linley Frame, Phil Rogers, Martin Roberts and Alicia Coutts is testimony to the quality of the program.’

Contact: David Packwood AIS Media Officer Phone: 02 62141476 / 0408 417894

* The AIS is a major division of the Australian Sports Commission