The Canadian Swimming Coaches Association (CSCA) is proud to announce the 22 recipients of the inaugural grants from the Doug Perks Coach Development Fund. These grants, totaling over $6,000, were awarded to coaches who attended their first Team Aquatic Supplies CSCA National Swim Coaches Conference in September.
The Doug Perks Coach Development Fund was established to support the growth and development of Canadian swim coaches, ensuring they have access to valuable learning opportunities and professional resources.
Doug Perks, the founder and principal supporter of the Doug Perks Coach Development Fund, has been a cornerstone of Canadian swimming. In 1986, Doug purchased the company Stranco Systems, renaming it DB Perks & Associates Ltd., now also known as The DB Perks Group. In 1989, he established Team Stranco as a division of DB Perks & Associates Ltd. to focus on aquatic supplies. Team Stranco was later separated from DB Perks & Associates Ltd. and became Team Aquatic Supplies, which has grown into Canada’s largest supplier of high-quality specialty swimwear, equipment, and accessories. Today, it operates under the leadership of General Manager Greg Sanderson.
Over the years, Doug and his companies have contributed more than $1 million to the growth and development of swimming in Canada, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the sport and its community.
Doug always emphasizes the importance of investing in coaching development:
"Coaches are the backbone of swimming in Canada. By supporting their growth, we are directly enhancing the future of the sport. This fund ensures that coaches at all levels have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive and succeed."
CSCA President Lance Cansdale also highlighted the fund’s significance:
"The Doug Perks Development Fund represents a meaningful step in supporting the professional growth of swim coaches. By providing financial assistance to those attending key development opportunities, we are empowering the next generation of coaching leaders and enhancing the impact they can have on athletes across the country."
Recipients of the inaugural DB Perks Coach Development Fund Grants:
- Mikayla Tyrrell, Dartmouth Crusaders Swim Club
- Mathew Mossey, Steadward Bears
- Janae Hoel, Summerland Orca Swim Club
- Nicole Miller, Medicine Hat Waves Swim Club
- Isabella Dej, Edmonton Keyano Swim Club
- Josh Koldon, St. James Seals
- Josh Sorensen, LA Swim Club
- Kim Norris, Fort McMurray Swim Club
- Kenton Williams, University of Calgary Swim Club
- Ehsan Shafaiyanfard, Olympian Swim Club
- Sophie Paridaen van Veen, Duncan Stingrays Swim Team
- Jessica Williams-Kathol, Strathmore Silver Sharks Swim Club
- Janice Nicholls, Breakers Swim Team
- Ocean Roos, Edmonton Keyano Swim Club
- Lauren Miner, Alberta Marlin Aquatic Club
- Karim Fahmy, Canadian Dolphin Swim Club
- Amy Bidrman, University of Calgary Swim Club
- Francois Coetzer, Olympian Swim Club
- Cam Harbeck, Manitoba Marlins
- Willem Hergesheimer, Spartan Swim Club
- Kristyn Steinke, Uxbridge Swim Club
- Gwyneth Norris, Fort McMurray Swim Club
The CSCA congratulates the recipients and extends its gratitude to all applicants, as well as to Doug Perks for his commitment to advancing coaching excellence in Canada. This initiative reflects the CSCA’s ongoing dedication to fostering a thriving and professional coaching community, ensuring the future of Canadian swimming continues to shine.