Club History

A Brief History of the Modernian Swimming Club

Based in the county town of Bedford, we are the premier swimming club in Bedford and Bedfordshire. We are a friendly club with a successful history and a positive future. Our swimmers have participated in all levels of competition, even attaining Olympic standard. We cater for all ages and abilities; our primary aim is to ensure each individual reaches their maximum potential in competitive swimming. In achieving these targets the individual will have attained a level of discipline, character, determination and confidence that will better prepare them for the challenges of life

The Modernian Swimming Club was established by Charlie Wilson in the mid 1960’s. Charlie had coached at all levels from grass roots through to the National Squad. Interest in the club grew and it soon became apparent there was a need for the club to expand and Teaching, Bridging, Junior, Senior, Masters and Life saving groups were developed. Modernian SC became Bedfordshire’s premier swimming club.

Many talented swimmers emerged through the system, including our former Head Coach Brian Brinkley; who was coached to Olympic success by Charlie in the 1970's. Brian took over the mantle from Charlie Wilson and was Head Coach of Modernians from 2004 to 2010. Swimmers benefited from Brian’s wealth of experience as a coach and as a former elite swimmer.

Following Brian’s decision to rest his stop watch we were delighted to appoint Ian Douglas as Head Coach in 2010. Ian is not new to Modernians, he has previously coached and taught within the club at all levels and trained to Level 4 Coach under Charlie Wilson. He is determined to develop Modernian SC in to a high quality competitive club and for it to be the premier swimming club in the region