Alton & District Swimming Club (ADSC) have appointed former England swimmer Magnus Weighton as their head coach.

Weighton’s swimming journey started aged nine, when a primary school teacher spotted he had a natural talent, and mentioned it to his parents.

He then started competing for his local swimming club and progressed to the regional squad, then the national squad.

Weighton competed in the junior squad at age 15, moved to the intermediate squad at age 16, and progressed to the senior squad at age 17.

He then participated in two Olympic trials, and came sixth in Europe in the European Junior Championships. He also came second in the World School Games.

At age 17, while competing in the senior squad, Weighton had a decision to make.

“I had to decide whether to pursue a career in swimming, or use this to gain a scholarship to university in America,” he said.

“I researched several options and I was delighted to receive a full scholarship to the University of Hawaii, as part of the international swimming squad.”

Weighton spent ten years in Hawaii, and in that time progressed into coaching.

He coached the University of Hawaii masters swimming team, and two triathlon teams. He then started his own adult swimming team.

Weighton then moved back to England, to settle in Alton.

“The first thing I did upon moving to Alton was start swimming with the ADSC Masters,” said Weighton.

“When I was approached to be head coach of ADSC, I thought about it seriously, then realised I have a lot of knowledge I want to pass on.

“There are some fantastic swimmers in the club, and I want to help the club thrive.

“Alton and the surrounding area needs a swimming club. We now have more than 100 members, and we’re continuing to grow.”