Who Is Ben Proud’s Coach? Everything You Need to Know About the Man Behind the Success of the Paris Olympics Swimming Star

Ben Proud is a name that comes with a streak of absolutely brilliant wins! The 29-year-old, 50m freestyle specialist has a history of setting and breaking records. And how can we forget the collection of Commonwealth, and European titles, all achieved within an exhilarating eight-week period? His comeback from the brink of retirement to dominating the pool again has left the world with many questions.

But as we celebrate Proud’s extraordinary achievements. One question keeps popping up in the heads of fans and viewers alike. Who is the mastermind behind one of the greatest comebacks? Did this someone play a crucial role in this tumultuous journey?

Meet Ben Proud’s coach James Gibson who is also an MBE!

Well, the man behind the mystery is none other than James Gibson. His coaching career is as dynamic as the swimmers he’s mentored. Gibson’s tactical training and commitment have left an impact on the swimming world and are bound to be remembered. A notable chapter in swimming history came to an end when Gibson announced his departure from British Swimming. During his time, he has guided athletes including Ben Proud to the epitome of swimming wins.

It was under Gibson’s training at the National Centre, Loughborough, that Proud sealed his name in history forever with a series of Commonwealth and European titles. Gibson’s list of laurels extends beyond Proud’s feats. Chris Spice, the National Performance Director of British Swimming lauded Gibson, “James has done a great job as a valuable British team coach at World Championships in 2013 and 2015, with England at the Commonwealth Games in 2014 and this year at the Rio Olympics for Great Britain.”

So where was this coaching star born? James Gibson made his first strokes at Witham Dolphins Swimming Club. The same club where he now serves as a lifelong President! This Essex boy born in Chelmsford has yet another impressive credential in his crown. In 2004, he was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for his contribution to the sport. He, however, continues to nurture his legacy as the head coach at Energy Standard Swim Club in Turkey.

What Does Gibson’s Recent Role as Advisor to World Aquatics Entail?

So, what’s next in the cards James Gibson? He has recently been appointed as an advisor to World Aquatics. Gibson will collaborate with World Aquatics Development Centres to elevate global coaching standards. Under this role, he will provide on-site coaching and educational support to coaches across centers. Brent Nowicki, the Executive Director of World Aquatics recently expressed his excitement about Gibson’s new role. “James is one of the most respected swimming coaches in the world. National teams, and specifically national team coaches, will have the opportunity to benefit from his decades of experience,” he added.

Gibson’s role has one major goal – Ensuring that all World Aquatics scholarship holders receive top-notch coaching regardless of where they are! “I am really looking forward to joining World Aquatics during such an exciting time for the sport,” Gibson shared. “There’s a huge amount of talent to work with, both from a coaching and athlete perspective. All my efforts will be on improving coaching standards and culture globally, ensuring that all coaches have the best possible tools and techniques available. Ultimately, our goal is to empower more athletes around the world to reach their full potential.” Gibson now sits in a powerful position that could change the coaching culture forever! With his unparalleled experience, Gibson is bound to make some changes that could redefine the future.