Forward July 2021 | Page 33

SCHOOL LIFE

Aqua man

STAFF
PROFILE

Andras Jo-Kovacs

Sport Development Coordinator , Aquatics and Athletics
The rich and diverse community at Guildford Grammar School is an excellent reflection of the Australian community . I am very happy to be part of it .
What is your role at the School ? I am the Sport Development Coordinator for Aquatics and Athletics . It is an honour to look after the School ’ s Learn to Swim program and Preparatory / Senior Swimming and Athletics programs , where students have the opportunity to demonstrate personal excellence at all levels .
Where did you work before Guildford Grammar School ?
I used to be a swimmer and later became a Water Polo athlete . I continued my journey with a sports science degree , specialising in coaching . Prior to joining GGS , I worked at WAIS as a Development Coach . I also spent several years with Youth National Water Polo teams and have also provided coaching support to clubs and schools in WA .
What are the values that drive you ?
Respect – which builds feelings of trust and wellbeing . Courage – which creates confidence and an attitude of facing and dealing with something recognised as difficult . Involvement – the act of taking part in anything important .
What do you like most about your job ?
The GGS aquatic environment is a positive one , with fun activities targeted to build physical , social and safety skills which are an important part of our life and create a lifetime appreciation for active living and enjoyment of the water . What I enjoy most is seeing students engaging with the sport and achieving their best at all different levels – how students are progressing in our Swim School , how they perform at open water , water polo or long course swimming competitions and athletics events .
What three words would you use to describe your role ?
Action , teamwork and excellence .
In one sentence , describe what Guildford Grammar School means to you .
The rich and diverse community at Guildford Grammar School is an excellent reflection of the Australian community . I am very happy to be part of it .
What do you feel gratitude for this year ?
The well-deserved success that our students achieved at the ACC Carnival this year . We need to maintain the momentum so we can step up to the next level in 2022 .
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working ?
I enjoy exercising and travelling , especially if I can do both at the same time ! I consider myself lucky as the sport I ’ m involved in has taken me to numerous places around the world . It has been a great experience to have a good taste of different cultures and to visit many swimming pools !
What was your most memorable moment this year ?
The ACC Swimming Carnival indeed ! It was a pleasure to be part of the historical , first ever co-ed winning team . I trust there are more to come !
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