Please find below an introductory message from our newly appointed head coach Nikki Merrill who will be starting on 1st August 2024:

Thank you to Diss Otters Committee for giving me this opportunity to be a part of Diss Otters SC.

Coaching has been a way of life for me for more years than I can remember!! I love every part of the role, but my favourite part is being involved with a “Swimming Family” and being part of one team with parents, coaches and swimmers all working together for the same goal.

Originally born in Essex (don’t hold it against me!!) I spent my younger years teaching and coaching as a hobby whilst doing my main managerial jobs in various Leisure Facilities. I went with my then boyfriend and now husband up North and spent 11yrs continuing my Leisure Career and enjoyment of teaching and coaching. My daughter Becki was born, and we moved back down to my neck of the woods and lived in Ipswich. (Again don’t hold it against us! )

I coached at Team Ipswich for a couple of years and then went to Deben SC working my way up to Assistant Coach and then was made HC. After 7 years we moved to Norwich, and I joined City Of Norwich SC as the Regional Coach while my daughter pursued her swimming career with them for 2yrs. The opportunity as an Assistant Head Coach took our family over to Norwich Swan where we remained for 8 yrs until last year. I am currently the Swimming Co-ordinator for South Norfolk at Wymondham LC.

I am married (Andy), one child (Becki) and two dogs (Millie & Tink) and I love all things Disney and Dolphins!! I get way too excited for Christmas so I will apologise for that now!

I am really excited to be joining you all and can’t wait to get started and to be a part of your swimming journey! See you all very soon!

Nikki