Mike Coles

Regional Chair

Swim School Lead & Aquatics Expert

Mike is a highly motivated leader with a lifelong passion for swimming and water polo. With over 50 years of experience in both professional and voluntary roles, he brings a unique blend of technical expertise, management skill, and community spirit to our team.

Expertise in Instruction: Mike specializes in teaching school swimming and water safety, with a deep focus on integrating autistic swimmers and students with SEND into mainstream lessons.
A Pillar of the Community: A recipient of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2010, Mike has served as the President of the Swim England South West Region and is a former Chair of the Somerset ASA, also representing them as a director on the board, before taking over as the Regional Chair in December 2025.
Elite Coaching: Since 1983, Mike has served as the Chief Water Polo Coach for the Weston-super-Mare Swimming Club and is a qualified National Swim England Water Polo Referee. He has also coached water polo at Somerset ASA and at the Regional Academy.
Multifaceted Background: Before fully committing to aquatics, Mike enjoyed a successful career in media and property marketing, serving as an Regional Property Manager accross the South West, and Studio Technical Manager, where he was recognized as Customer Service Person of the Year.in 2009.

Quick Facts

Qualifications: Level 3 Water Polo Teacher, Level 2 Swimming Teacher, and First Aid/Defibrillator trained.
Tech Savvy: He is an expert in Adobe Creative Suite and web design, often serving as a webmaster for regional sports leagues.
Home Grown: Born and raised in Weston-super-Mare, Mike has been married to his wife, Joy, for 45 years. They have two sons (both of whom play water polo), and four grandchildren who, of course, can all swim. His father was a Swim Teacher, as is one of his sons and a daughter-in-law.
He is a Life Member of Somerset ASA, Bristol & West Water Polo League, and Weston-super-Mare Swimming Club.
Interests: When he isn't at the pool, Mike enjoys photography, DIY, and following rugby and cricket. He is also a lover of good Red Wine.