TEAM AST

Meet the AST Coaching Team

Our club is powered by a dedicated and passionate team of qualified coaches committed to helping every swimmer achieve their personal best.

Our Lead Coaches

Nic Hazelton

Nic Hazelton

Head Coach & World Masters Champion

🎓 SE Level 2 Coach, Level 2 Teacher

Nic has been a competitive swimmer since age 5, achieving top rankings at County and Regional levels. Her passion continued into Masters swimming, winning Gold and Bronze at the 2005 World Masters Games.

Nominated for the Swim England South West Coach of the Year in 2023. Outside the pool, she is an Architectural Technician.

Oliver Astill

Oliver Astill

Lead Development Coach

🎓 SE Level 2 Coach

Oliver is a fantastic example of our community spirit. Starting as a swim parent and volunteer Team Manager, he completed his Level 1 in 2024 and achieved his Level 2 in early 2025.

As a swim team parent, Ollie has a great understanding of a swimmer's journey and is a key figure in developing our competitive squads.

Lewis Plume

Lewis Plume

Junior Squad Lead Coach

🎓 SE Level 2 Coach

Lewis joined in 2024 with a mission to lead our Junior Squad. He excels at developing skills and confidence as young swimmers transition from lessons to club swimming.

Lewis plays a vital role in organizing team galas, giving new swimmers their first exciting taste of racing.

Tom Brice

Tom Brice

Coach & Swim Teacher

🎓 SE Level 2 Coach, Level 2 Teacher

Tom taught many of our newest members to swim! He began coaching in 2024 and achieved his Level 1 in April 2025. He was nominated for the Swim England Teacher of the Year award in 2024.

He is now keen to continue developing his coaching skills on poolside with his new qualification.

Our Coaches & Teachers

Lewis Duggan

Lewis Duggan

Coach & Performance Swimmer

🎓 SE Level 1 Coach, Level 2 Teacher

A dedicated AST swimmer since 2015 and a perfect role model. He is the reigning County Champion and Club Record Holder in the 100m Butterfly. Lewis brings his competitive experience directly to his coaching.

Chris Wood

Chris Wood

Junior Squad Coach

🎓 SE Level 1 Coach

Chris joined in April 2024 to support our Junior Squad. He is a key part of the team welcoming our youngest swimmers and provides fantastic support at team galas.