Former Australian open national swimmer Scott Farnell is the new coach at Abingdon Vale.

The 22-year-old, from Sydney, has dreamt of coaching abroad from a young age.

And Farnell’s own decision to transfer into coaching was inspired by his mentor and former Australian head coach, Alan Thompson.

Within his first year as head coach, one of his swimmers reached national level in Australia.

Farnell aims to bring this same success to Abingdon.

He said: “I want to make Abingdon the most succ-essful club in the region. It is clear there is huge amount of potential, a lot of talent and definitely future stars.

“I have brought in a new structure and the kids are really showing a positive attitude and enthusiasm towards it.

“I believe technique is the foundation of any swim-mer’s road to success.”

Farnell’s fresh approach and passion for the sport has already made a big impression.

Arne Lyzenga, father of promising youngster Nienke, from Wootton, has also not-iced an immediate and encouraging change.

He said: “There seems to be a new sense of energy at pool-side during the training.

“In addition, there is an improved focus for the swimmers, embodied in the new squad structure.

He added: “Results will not come automatically, and a lot of hard work will be needed to get there.

“But the tools and will-power seem to be in place to deliver good results.”

The past year has already seen some great achieve-ments by the club.

They were runners-up for Oxfordshire Junior Sports team-of-the-year award and climbed a division in the National Arena league.

Diane Law, the club chair-man, said: “Scott brings new ideas and inspiration from one of the most successful swimming nations.

“This will undoubtedly help build on our previous successes.”

For further information about the club visit their website, www.avsc.co.uk