UK Coaching Week 2024 | Jennie MacMahon

30th Apr 2024 | Written by Pamela Sneddon

To celebrate #UKCoachingWeek we are speaking to some of the great coaches from around the country who inspire us every day.

Jennie MacMahon is 16 years old and currently coaches swimming at Fusion Triathlon Club, having recently qualified as a Foundation Coach.

How did you get into triathlon?

I got into triathlon just after covid. I have always enjoyed sport and physical activity, and I had started going swimming most nights with my dad and also enjoyed cycling, so triathlon was something I was interested in trying.

We looked around for local clubs and found Fusion. I went along for a trial day and really enjoyed it.

Why did you decide to take the step into coaching?

I was encouraged to think about coaching by some of the coaches and my friends in the club.

In school I have helped to run clubs and completed different Active Schools courses in leading sport, such as Leading Athletics, and enjoyed them.

You have recently completed your Foundation Coach qualification. How did you find the course and training?

I found it a really thorough course, which helped me to understand the background of coaching multisport as well as the practice aspects of planning and running sessions.

I had lots of fun at the in-person day and I feel that it prepared me for coaching sessions. I would definitely recommend the course to anyone interested in coaching.

What do you enjoy most about the coaching you do?

Talking to people and getting to know them is something that I love to do.

Coaching gives me the opportunity to do this and get to know lots of different people of all ages. It also allows me to help people improve and reach their goals.

Do you have any future ambitions for your coaching journey?

I’m happy with being a Foundation Coach at the moment, but maybe when I am older I will look to progress to Group Coach.

Why should others consider becoming a coach?

Being a coach is really rewarding on a personal basis, but I also think it is really important that everyone gives something back to the sport. Being a coach is a perfect way to do this.