GREAT BAY--Fourteen participants have successfully completed the Assistant Swim Coach Course organized by the St. Maarten Aquatic Federation (SMAF), marking another step in the federation’s efforts to strengthen local coaching capacity, improve athlete development and raise the standard of competitive swimming on the island.
The course was held from October 7 to 9, 2026, under the guidance of Coach Dexter Browne of Trinidad and Tobago, a member of the World Aquatics Coaching Committee. The training provided participants with knowledge and practical skills intended to support swimming instruction and coaching at the club level.
The 14 newly certified assistant coaches are Adaya Bourne, Arrifin Tadimoeljo, Audrey Wilson, Cassandra Janssen, Ellie Tomlinson, Gean Taroenoredjo, J'aishaa Jeffers, Jhonella Fitzpatrick, Judy Fitzpatrick, Maik Croes, Mariette Schrijvers, Natasha Wright, Rashad Peterson and Rita Gumbs.
During the official certificate presentation ceremony, SMAF President Dwight Vermeer congratulated the participants on their dedication and successful completion of the course.
Vermeer expressed hope that swimming clubs throughout St. Maarten would benefit directly from the additional coaching knowledge and skills acquired by the graduates. He emphasized the importance of strengthening training programs and creating an environment in which young swimmers can develop their abilities and progress in competitive swimming.
The certification initiative forms part of SMAF's broader commitment to investing in coach education and building a stronger foundation for the future of aquatic sports on St. Maarten.
Director of the Sports Department Jonelle Richardson also congratulated the participants and commended SMAF for its continued efforts to advance swimming development on the island.
Richardson recognized the federation's investment in training and capacity building, while expressing appreciation to Coach Browne for sharing his international coaching experience and expertise with local participants.
As part of the ceremony, Browne received a Special Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of his contribution to the development of swimming and coaching on St. Maarten.
The certificate was presented on behalf of St. Maarten Sports Federation President Naomi Korstanje, SMAF President Dwight Vermeer and Sports Department Director Jonelle Richardson.
SMAF expressed gratitude to Browne for his dedication and willingness to share his experience with the local aquatic community.
According to the federation, the completion of the course represents more than the certification of 14 individuals. It also means that local swimming clubs now have access to an additional group of trained assistant coaches who can contribute to improving instruction, supporting athletes and strengthening swimming programs.
The federation encouraged the graduates to put their newly acquired knowledge into practice and continue contributing to the growth of swimming on St. Maarten.
SMAF reaffirmed its commitment to expanding opportunities for coach development, recognizing that continued investment in qualified coaches is essential to improving the quality of training and helping local swimmers reach their potential.
