Vicki Delves: Coaching Beginners, Confidence and Skill Building in Open Water

In this episode, Grant is joined by Vicki Delves to explore what it really takes to help people feel confident, capable and supported as they begin their journey into open water swimming.

Drawing on her experience coaching beginners and working closely with multisport athletes, Vicki shares how she helps swimmers translate fundamental skills into confidence in real‑world environments. The conversation covers common fears and barriers faced by newcomers, the role of structured progression, and how thoughtful coaching can create safe, welcoming pathways into open water - whether swimmers are there for wellbeing, community, or as part of a broader triathlon journey.

This episode will resonate with swimmers who are new to open water, coaches supporting mixed‑ability groups and anyone interested in how skill development, care, and connection underpin long‑term confidence in the water.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Women’s Academy of Triathlon (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/womensacademyoftriathlon/
• Perkins Plunge: https://www.perkinsplunge.org.au/

This interview was recorded on Whadjuk Noongar Boodjar. I acknowledge the Noongar people as the Traditional Custodians of this land and pay my respects to Elders past and present.