We are so fortunate to have Michael Matthews as our coach and as a leader. Michael differentiates himself from other Canadian Outrigger coaches, describing them as 'expert paddlers who have learned to be proficient at coaching', whereas he is 'an expert coach who has learned to be somewhat proficient as a paddler!' He is a fully qualified coach in four sports: Rowing, Rugby, Dragonboating and Outrigger Canoeing. He has coached Henley winners, rugby at international level, school championship teams in rugby, rowing, Track & Field, Softball and Field Hockey, and, of course, the world-record breaking qathet Regional District crew in the 2018 World Outrigger Sprint Championships!
Michael’s philosophy as a club coach is that anybody and everybody, of any level, should be able to paddle together with enjoyment. This means establishing a standard stroke style that is natural and comfortable, regardless of age or experience. Rather than focus on the minutiae of individual techniques, Michael, then prefers to concentrate on what makes six individuals blend together as a crew.
After a career spent travelling the world as an international educator, Michael retired to Powell River in 2012, and is very happy to have the chance to contribute to his adopted community!
Michael’s philosophy as a club coach is that anybody and everybody, of any level, should be able to paddle together with enjoyment. This means establishing a standard stroke style that is natural and comfortable, regardless of age or experience. Rather than focus on the minutiae of individual techniques, Michael, then prefers to concentrate on what makes six individuals blend together as a crew.
After a career spent travelling the world as an international educator, Michael retired to Powell River in 2012, and is very happy to have the chance to contribute to his adopted community!