Andrew ‘Herbie’ Howard
Paralympic Coach
Owner Operator - Herb’s Training and Swim School
Legendary swim coach Andrew ‘Herbie’ Howard is best known for his long-standing work with Paralympian Grant ‘Scooter’ Patterson, a coaching partnership that has spanned more than 17 years.
Herbie coached Scooter through his success at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, where he won both bronze and silver medals. He also supported Scooter in the lead-up to the Paris Paralympic Games, helping him continue his journey at the highest level of international para-swimming.
Based in Cairns, Herbie also operates his own swim school, Herb’s Training and Swim School, where he continues to support swimmers of all ages and abilities through his practical, inclusive and highly experienced approach to teaching and coaching.
In addition to his work as a Paralympic swimming coach and swim school operator, Herbie works with Swimming Queensland’s disability, Indigenous and participation programs and a a trainer for SWIM.
Through these roles, he continues to make a significant contribution to athlete development, inclusion and participation across the swimming community.
Synopsis
Herbie’s Believe It or Not: Teaching Every Swimmer to Thrive
Every swimmer brings different strengths, challenges and learning needs to the lesson environment. In this engaging session, Andrew “Herbie” Howard will explore how teachers and coaches can recognise individual ability, adapt their approach and create meaningful progress for swimmers of all levels.
From able-bodied swimmers through to swimmers with disability, Herbie will share practical strategies for getting the most out of each lesson while keeping swimmers engaged, supported and challenged. The session will highlight the importance of observation, communication, creativity and flexibility in helping every swimmer build confidence, skills and enjoyment in the water.