Staff

Michelle White
Aquatic Centre and Turf Manager

Michelle White has over 30 years’ experience in the swim industry, as a competitive swimmer, administrator, official and coach. She is nationally qualified in IOT (Inspector of Turns) and timekeeping and has achieved numerous coaching and swim teaching certifications over the years. Michelle has taught babies through to competitive squads, both at Diocesan and elsewhere, and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role. Michelle has had involvement in surf lifesaving and is passionate about ensuring that children are confident and safe around water. 

Ella Speight
Senior Instructor 

Ella has been at the swim school for over 3 years, teaching all levels and also helping out in the office. She has a background in competitive swimming and water polo. On Saturday mornings she helps run the swim school with Ikko.

Ikko Shibuya 
Swim School Coordinator and Instructor

Ikko joined the team at the start of 2023, and comes from a competitive swimming background. He has represented New Zealand at an age group level and has won multiple national titles across his 13 years in the sport. His technical knowledge is valuable in helping kids perfect their technique and build endurance in the squads, which he teaches in the afternoons alongside Scott. Ikko runs the swim school in the office during Saturday morning lessons.

Scott Wills 
Senior Instructor

Scott joined the team in 2022, and has over 18 years experience in teaching swimming across Auckland. Scott has been involved in swimming from a young age, representing Papua New Guinea at the School Pacific Games. He's taught a range of age groups and levels, from kids learning to swim, to Iron Man athletes. 

Carlos Kucera
Senior Instructor

Carlos has an extensive background in education, specialising in physical education. He has a PhD in education, and has over 20 years experience teaching and training children and athletes, including training strength and conditioning for two Olympic swimmers. He leads the Saturday morning babies class alongside our experienced junior pool instructors.

Coaching team

Over 30 swim instructors are employed on a part time basis to teach swimming, usually whilst completing their tertiary studies or finishing school. We have a well diversified team with a range of swimming backgrounds including: competitive swimming, water polo and surf lifesaving. However, it is their ability to interact positively with children and to motivate and encourage them to learn in a fun but focused manner, which is key. Staff receive regular training in water safety, first aid and stroke technique as part of their employment.