Roly has had an amazing 40 years of service and dedication not only to Paralympics New Zealand but to Para sport generally. He represented New Zealand at 5 Paralympic Games, 2 as a Paralympian and 3 as a Para swimming coach.
As a Paralympian, Roly competed at the Stoke Mandeville 1984 and Seoul 1988 Paralympic Games winning a total of 6 medals: 1 gold, 3 silver and 2 bronze.
As a Para swimming coach, his long-standing partnership with Sophie Pascoe from the age of 8 has seen her win 19 Paralympic medals across 4 Paralympic Games and become New Zealand’s most decorated Paralympian.
Roly has an in-depth understanding of the needs of Paralympic athletes, being a former gold medal winning Paralympian himself. Roly is regarded by colleagues as a hardworking and dedicated Para swimming coach who gives his everything for his athletes. He is very passionate about Para swimming and providing the best possible experience and opportunities for all athletes.
Roly was honoured as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2018 New Year’s Honours.
