The Coaching Team

Linda Strachan  Linda is first of the three founder members of the club, taking the post of Chair.  She is the performance manager and sets the coaching schedules.  Linda fought for Great Britain at two Olympic Games, won a modern day record of seven British Championships and retired as Commonwealth Champion.  A brief comeback saw her win a gold medal at the 2006 British Team Championships. 

Pierre Harper  Pierre is the second of the three founder members of the club, taking the post of Hon. Treasurer.  He is also the head coach and is responsible for delivering the coaching schedules and is the lead coach of Newham Swords' elite fencers.  Pierre fought for Great Britain at three Olympic Games, was ranked as high as No. 3 in the world and won six British Championships along with six individual Commonwealth titles!

Dave Savin  Dave is the third founder member of the club, taking the role of Hon. Secretary.  He helps Pierre deliver the coaching schedules and he is the coach most beginners (especially mini-fencers) will encounter first.  At one time Dave was coaching at seven sessions a week as Newham swords Estate Based Coach!

Laurent Harper  Laurent is a two time British Champion and is our coach for the Adult Courses.  Picture and more info to follow.

Jon Weekes  Jon is our junior  course coach and among other things has doubled for the baddie in a James Bond film.  Still an active fencer Jon is rated in the top 50 in the country!  Picture and more info to follow.