Swim Ireland Performance Swimming
Vacancy: National Centre Pathway Coach (Limerick)
Remuneration commensurate with experience and qualifications
As part of our Performance Strategy for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic cycle and beyond, and with the support of the Sport Ireland High Performance Unit, Swim Ireland Performance is seeking a talented, motivated, and ambitious swimming coach to take up the role of National Centre Pathway Coach (Limerick) from January 2026.
We are seeking an individual with a clear, long-term commitment to coaching at Performance level in Ireland. This role combines in-service coaching with structured formal and informal education, alongside continued professional development opportunities both within Ireland and internationally.
Role Overview
The National Centre Pathway Coach (Limerick) will report to the Head Coach of the National Centre (Limerick) and work as part of a collaborative coaching team to deliver a world-class Performance programme on the University of Limerick campus. In partnership with the National Centre Head Coach and coaching colleagues, the successful candidate will:
• Support and oversee a designated group of athletes within the Centre programme
• Contribute to coaching initiatives associated with the Centre
• Deliver coaching hours at the National Centre (Limerick)
• Support the Athlete Support Programme across Connacht and Munster
• Contribute regularly to coaching at the Cork Performance Pathway Hub
This role forms an integral part of the Swim Ireland Performance Plan 2024–2028, preparing athletes for national and international junior and senior competitions, with the ambition of producing world-class performers for the 2028 and 2032 Olympic Games.
Our Vision for Performance Swimming in Ireland
“Through a unified endeavour across Irish aquatics, power a dynamic system and an ever-evolving culture to develop and support identified aquatic talent, those who wear the Green Jacket with pride, and particularly those who are driven to stand on World & Olympic podiums.”
Our work is guided by the following core principles:
• Commitment to a long-term Performance programme aimed at recurrent, sustainable success
• Dedication to developing a system that enables athletes to reach their full potential consistently
• Aspiration to deliver success at Olympic, World, and European level
• A people-centred Performance programme focused on developing world-class athletes, coaches, and practitioners
• A commitment to ensuring the Performance pathway is a positive and transformative experience for all involved
What Successful Applicants Will Benefit From
• Formal coach education opportunities from Level 2 through Level 3, plus Team Management qualifications as required
• Membership of the Sport Ireland Performance Pathway Coach Development Programme
• Sport-specific mentoring from the National Performance Director and Performance Team members
• Annual domestic and/or international coaching internships (expenses provided)
• The opportunity to work within a high-performance Multi-Disciplinary Team environment
Ideal Candidate Profile
Applicants will ideally demonstrate:
1. Knowledge and experience in developing, organising, and delivering coaching programmes that maximise athlete potential
2. Strong relationship-building skills and the ability to establish credibility with athletes and partners
3. Excellent communication skills and the ability to support short- and long-term programme development
4. A desire to contribute to the evolution and success of the Swim Ireland Performance programme, with the National Centre (Limerick) playing a central role
Key Expectations of the Role
Applicants should understand that they will:
• Support the transition of athletes from club environments into Performance programmes capable of delivering international success
• Attend swim meets and/or training camps as required to support National Centre, Regional Programme, National Programme, and National Team athletes
• Work unsocial hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends, as required
• Operate as a key member of the Regional and/or National Programme, and serve as National Team staff when needed
• Coordinate and deliver education opportunities as required
• Maintain their Swim Ireland Coach qualification in line with the Register of Aquatic Professionals
Informal Enquiries
Informal enquiries may be directed in the first instance to the Interim National Performance Director at andrewreid@swimireland.ie
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
We particularly welcome applications from female candidates and from Black and minority ethnic candidates, who are currently under-represented within our Performance Team. Swim Ireland appoints strictly on merit.
Applicants must have the legal right to work in Ireland at the time of application.
All applications will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Applicants may indicate their current salary and/or remuneration expectations during the application process.
How to Apply
Please submit the following to the Swim Ireland HR Manager via chloekinahan@swimireland.ie:
• Cover letter, including a personal statement addressing the role requirements and outlining how your skills, experience, and values align with the position
• Comprehensive CV relevant to the role, including details for three referees (one of whom must be your current employer)
Closing date for applications: 1200 GMT on Friday 10th January 2026
This is a full-time position, with a preferred start date of February 2026 as part of an initial fixed term contract.