Coach Profile - Jim Garland

I first started diving during a trip to Africa in 1995. It was actually Christmas day when I passed my Open Water exam. What a Christmas day that was, whilst family at home, in Ireland, were tucking into Christmas dinner, I spent all day diving in Lake Malawi - the sacrifices one has to make. Anyway after my return I was unable to get back into the sport, due to long periods spent away from home at University, where I trained as a Zoologist. In 2001 I decided to join the Gwynedd Branch of the BSAC and since then have qualified to Advanced Diver and Open Water Instructor; I am also the branch Training Officer and have been, for the last three years. As a Zoologist, the diversity animal life we encounter every time we enter the water never ceases to amaze me. This experience and a willingness to help others experience this unique world was one of the main reasons I decided to become an Instructor. As well as Natural History I also enjoy U/W Photography and Wreck Diving. I am at my happiest when I can combine all three disciplines. As the Area Coach for North West Wales, I intend to act as an effective intermediary between the clubs and preserve the strong links already present. My priority is to ensure that we maintain the active cross club training programme, and increase the profile of the diving community within the area as a whole.

Safe Diving

Jim Garland

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