Sergey Konov of Bowser, British Columbia, exemplifies the passion, experience, and leadership abilities of what makes the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) the world leader in coach education.

A native of Russia, Konov has been involved in swimming for most of his life. A member of the USSR National Swim team from 1967 – 1972, and Olympic team in 1968, Konov transitioned from an Olympic athlete to post-secondary education in Education and the Theory of Sport and Sport Training seamlessly.

“I loved being an athlete and working with coaches and other swimmers,” said Konov. “It was a natural transition for me to continue with higher education. I loved learning and gaining more sport knowledge which I still love doing to this day.”

Konov’s background is evident of his passion for learning and coach education. He has a PhD in Sport Theory of Junior Swimming, and has coached in many State, USSR, and Asian Games Championships, including coaching an athlete to an Olympic bronze medal. He has published over 40 articles and brochures related to theory and training specific to swimming, was the Head Coach and Administrator of the Russian Junior National Swim team from 2000 – 2008, and served as the representative to Russia as a Fédération Internationale de Natation judge from 2003 – 2006.

Konov immigrated to Canada in 2008 and is currently an NCCP Master Learning Facilitator, Master Evaluator, Mentor Coach, and a Certified Level 3 coach in swimming.

Carla Young, one of the coaches Konov recently helped mentor towards completing her Senior Coach Certification, stated that Konov was one of the best mentors she has ever had the opportunity to work with. “Without Sergey’s perseverance of calling me, skyping, and emailing me, I don’t think I would have completed my Senior Coach Certification. Sergey is a huge asset to our sport of swimming in this country. We are so lucky to have such an educated, giving man that is willing to do everything to ensure that our coaching education training is stepped up to the highest quality.”

“It is my hope and dream that taking NCCP courses will excite a coach into wanting to learn more and to continue to pursue their own scientific knowledge of sport,” said Konov. “The NCCP is a positive step forward for Canada in improving the knowledge base and professional skills of Canadian coaches.”

When asked what message Konov would provide to all of Canada’s coaches, he responded simply: “Your knowledge is your strength. Use it wisely and continue to learn.”