Club History

A Brief History of the Modernian Swimming Club

The Modernian Swimming Club was established by Charlie Wilson in the mid 1960's.  Training took place at the Bedford Modern School Pool and comprised mainly of students from the school.  Interest in the club grew and it soon became apparent there was a need for the club to expand.  Teaching, Bridging, Junior, Senior, Masters and Life Saving groups were developed. 

Both children and adults from Bedford and the surrounding area joined the club, it became the elite club in the district.  Our swimmers have participated in all levels of competition including County, Midland, National and International meets.

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 2005 to 2009.  Swimmers benefitted from Brian’s wealth of experience as a coach and as a former elite swimmer and, as a life member of the club, we recognise his desire to spend more time with the family but hope he will stay in touch. 

Following Brian’s decision to rest his stop watch we were delighted to appoint Ian Douglas as Head Coach.  Ian is not new to Modernians, having trained to Level 3 under Charlie Wilson.  Ian has previously coached all squads and has taken many of our training camps.  He is determined to develop Modernians to a high quality competitive club.