NOT ONLY SPORT, IT'S LIFE
Witnessing Life Transformations
Mr. Yip Chun Ho (Registered Swimming Coach of Hong Kong China Swimming Association)
📚 The Intersection of Mathematics and Waves: The Swimming Legacy of an Actuarial Student.
Starting from Fear, Growing in Encouragement
I began my swimming journey at "The Kids" when I was five years old, and I have now accumulated over ten years of experience in the pool. I still remember how terrified I was of water when my mother first brought me here. Fortunately, thanks to the constant encouragement from the coaches, I gradually made new friends and fell in love with this sport.
Overcoming Obstacles and Relieving Pressure
The path of learning was not without challenges. For instance, when learning freestyle, I struggled with balance and often sank. However, the patient guidance from the coaches at "The Kids" helped me refine my technique. As I grew older, I joined the competitive swim team, where I challenged myself through various competitions.
Upon entering secondary school, academic pressure intensified. However, training with the swim team became my sanctuary for stress relief and mental relaxation. Even during the 2022 HKDSE exams, I never gave up swimming and ultimately achieved an outstanding result of 5** in my best subjects.
Role Transformation and the Spirit of Legacy
As my skills matured, my coaches recommended that I pursue professional qualifications, such as lifeguard and coaching certificates. Today, I am a qualified coach, returning to "The Kids" to help teach children in need.
Currently, I am a third-year Actuarial Science student at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. Although my major is unrelated to sports, I am deeply passionate about using the swimming knowledge I gained at "The Kids" to mentor the next generation. My goal is to empower these students so that they, too, can one day teach others—passing on the love for swimming and the spirit of helping others from generation to generation.
📚 The Intersection of Mathematics and Waves: The Swimming Legacy of an Actuarial Student.
Starting from Fear, Growing in Encouragement
I began my swimming journey at "The Kids" when I was five years old, and I have now accumulated over ten years of experience in the pool. I still remember how terrified I was of water when my mother first brought me here. Fortunately, thanks to the constant encouragement from the coaches, I gradually made new friends and fell in love with this sport.
Overcoming Obstacles and Relieving Pressure
The path of learning was not without challenges. For instance, when learning freestyle, I struggled with balance and often sank. However, the patient guidance from the coaches at "The Kids" helped me refine my technique. As I grew older, I joined the competitive swim team, where I challenged myself through various competitions.
Upon entering secondary school, academic pressure intensified. However, training with the swim team became my sanctuary for stress relief and mental relaxation. Even during the 2022 HKDSE exams, I never gave up swimming and ultimately achieved an outstanding result of 5** in my best subjects.
Role Transformation and the Spirit of Legacy
As my skills matured, my coaches recommended that I pursue professional qualifications, such as lifeguard and coaching certificates. Today, I am a qualified coach, returning to "The Kids" to help teach children in need.
Currently, I am a third-year Actuarial Science student at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. Although my major is unrelated to sports, I am deeply passionate about using the swimming knowledge I gained at "The Kids" to mentor the next generation. My goal is to empower these students so that they, too, can one day teach others—passing on the love for swimming and the spirit of helping others from generation to generation.
Ms. Ng Choi Tong (Registered Swimming Coach of Hong Kong China Swimming Association)
🏊♀️ From Student Swimmer to Nurse & Swimming Coach: A 13-Year Legacy of Passion
Thirteen Years of Guidance and Growth
I first encountered swimming at the age of four and have since accumulated thirteen years of experience. I chose to stay and learn here because the coaches are incredibly patient and friendly; whenever I faced difficulties or felt confused, they always provided meticulous guidance.
As I grew older, my coaches recommended that I take advanced courses, such as Lifesaving and Swimming Instructor certifications. This allowed me to continue developing in the field and gain a much deeper understanding of the various facets of swimming.
Insight and Legacy
Through my exposure to lifesaving and coaching courses, I finally grasped the teaching philosophy of my childhood coaches and understood the intentions behind their guidance. This realization sparked a strong desire within me: to pass on those early teachings, along with the professional knowledge I’ve acquired, to the next generation and foster their passion for the sport.
Bridging Nursing and Coaching
Currently, I am in my second year of nursing studies. In my spare time, I hope to return to "The Kids" to teach children how to swim. My goal is to cultivate their interest in swimming so that, in the future, they may also explore this industry and perhaps even consider a career in it.
🏊♀️ From Student Swimmer to Nurse & Swimming Coach: A 13-Year Legacy of Passion
Thirteen Years of Guidance and Growth
I first encountered swimming at the age of four and have since accumulated thirteen years of experience. I chose to stay and learn here because the coaches are incredibly patient and friendly; whenever I faced difficulties or felt confused, they always provided meticulous guidance.
As I grew older, my coaches recommended that I take advanced courses, such as Lifesaving and Swimming Instructor certifications. This allowed me to continue developing in the field and gain a much deeper understanding of the various facets of swimming.
Insight and Legacy
Through my exposure to lifesaving and coaching courses, I finally grasped the teaching philosophy of my childhood coaches and understood the intentions behind their guidance. This realization sparked a strong desire within me: to pass on those early teachings, along with the professional knowledge I’ve acquired, to the next generation and foster their passion for the sport.
Bridging Nursing and Coaching
Currently, I am in my second year of nursing studies. In my spare time, I hope to return to "The Kids" to teach children how to swim. My goal is to cultivate their interest in swimming so that, in the future, they may also explore this industry and perhaps even consider a career in it.
Ms. Lei Yi Lam (Registered Swimming Coach of Hong Kong China Swimming Association)
🏊♀️ Overcoming Obstacles: From a Shy Student to a Confident Swimming Coach
Overcoming Fear with Persistence
My bond with swimming began when I was just two years old. My mother introduced me to "The Kids", and I joined the classes. At first, I knew nothing about swimming; I simply admired those who could glide through the water with such ease and freedom.
When I first entered the water, I was terrified. Fortunately, the coaches encouraged me with immense patience, and with the mutual support of my peers, I gradually overcame my fear. Instead of giving up, I persisted in attending classes every week, while the coaches meticulously guided me through various techniques and training methods.
The most unforgettable moment was when I finally swam across the entire pool for the first time. That feeling of physical and mental freedom filled me with immense pride and excitement—at that moment, I knew I had overcome a significant psychological barrier.
A Turning Point: Becoming a Coach
Throughout my swimming journey, my coaches provided numerous opportunities for me to participate in intensive training. When I turned 21, they recommended that I pursue a swimming coach certification, which became a major turning point in my life. Obtaining this qualification officially made me a coach, bringing profound changes to both my life and my personality.
Growth Through Teaching
This profession has granted me many opportunities, from attending professional training courses to personally teaching children how to swim. This experience has drastically transformed my once shy and reserved nature:
🏊♀️ Overcoming Obstacles: From a Shy Student to a Confident Swimming Coach
Overcoming Fear with Persistence
My bond with swimming began when I was just two years old. My mother introduced me to "The Kids", and I joined the classes. At first, I knew nothing about swimming; I simply admired those who could glide through the water with such ease and freedom.
When I first entered the water, I was terrified. Fortunately, the coaches encouraged me with immense patience, and with the mutual support of my peers, I gradually overcame my fear. Instead of giving up, I persisted in attending classes every week, while the coaches meticulously guided me through various techniques and training methods.
The most unforgettable moment was when I finally swam across the entire pool for the first time. That feeling of physical and mental freedom filled me with immense pride and excitement—at that moment, I knew I had overcome a significant psychological barrier.
A Turning Point: Becoming a Coach
Throughout my swimming journey, my coaches provided numerous opportunities for me to participate in intensive training. When I turned 21, they recommended that I pursue a swimming coach certification, which became a major turning point in my life. Obtaining this qualification officially made me a coach, bringing profound changes to both my life and my personality.
Growth Through Teaching
This profession has granted me many opportunities, from attending professional training courses to personally teaching children how to swim. This experience has drastically transformed my once shy and reserved nature:
- Enhanced Communication: I had to learn how to express instructions and technical requirements clearly and accurately, requiring constant communication with both students and parents.
- A Sense of Achievement: Seeing a student start from zero and eventually master swimming brings an unparalleled sense of success.
- Becoming Proactive and Bold: The accumulation of these experiences allows me to be much more proactive and confident when interacting with friends or even strangers.
Ms. Chan Sze Ki
🏊♂️ Swimming Toward a Brilliant Life: What The Kids Taught Me Far Exceeds Swimming
My name is Sze Ki Chan, and I am 17 years old. The 12 years I've spent learning to swim with "The Kids" have been a witness to a major transformation in my life.
I initially jumped into the water simply to improve my health, never imagining that this pool would become the forge for my willpower. I have faced the fear of water and corrected my posture countless times; it was the patience and professionalism of my coaches that helped me overcome every obstacle. This journey taught me that swimming is not just a sport—it is a discipline of self-challenge.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to earn my Bronze Medallion and transition into an Assistant Instructor. Moving from student to coach allowed me to see things from a new perspective. From being initially overwhelmed to eventually communicating and teaching skills to children with confidence, the sense of achievement has made me stronger.
In the recently concluded training camp, I put leadership into practice. Whether through teamwork or guiding younger peers, I felt the true weight of "encouragement" and "responsibility." Every lesson learned at "The Kids" will guide me on my future path of growth.
Finally, I hope to carry forward the philosophy: "Not Only Sport, It's Life." I will take this spirit to inspire more children—just like I once was—helping them learn perseverance through swimming and realize the true value of life.
🏊♂️ Swimming Toward a Brilliant Life: What The Kids Taught Me Far Exceeds Swimming
My name is Sze Ki Chan, and I am 17 years old. The 12 years I've spent learning to swim with "The Kids" have been a witness to a major transformation in my life.
I initially jumped into the water simply to improve my health, never imagining that this pool would become the forge for my willpower. I have faced the fear of water and corrected my posture countless times; it was the patience and professionalism of my coaches that helped me overcome every obstacle. This journey taught me that swimming is not just a sport—it is a discipline of self-challenge.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to earn my Bronze Medallion and transition into an Assistant Instructor. Moving from student to coach allowed me to see things from a new perspective. From being initially overwhelmed to eventually communicating and teaching skills to children with confidence, the sense of achievement has made me stronger.
In the recently concluded training camp, I put leadership into practice. Whether through teamwork or guiding younger peers, I felt the true weight of "encouragement" and "responsibility." Every lesson learned at "The Kids" will guide me on my future path of growth.
Finally, I hope to carry forward the philosophy: "Not Only Sport, It's Life." I will take this spirit to inspire more children—just like I once was—helping them learn perseverance through swimming and realize the true value of life.
Mr. Tong Ngao Yin
🏊♂️ 【13 Years of Water, a Lifetime of Nourishment. I am Tong Ngao Yin】
From the age of 5 to 18, "The Kids" has witnessed my entire youth. Growing up, I spent more than half of my time in the water; for me, this foundation has long been more than just a place to swim—it is my second home.
My 13-year swimming journey was not smooth sailing from the start. I remember being terrified of the water as a young child and having poor coordination. It was the professionalism and warmth of the coaches at "The Kids" that pulled me back from the brink of quitting and helped me slowly build my confidence in the water.
This confidence not only allowed me to earn my lifesaving qualifications but also opened the door to teaching. Transitioning from a student to an Assistant Instructor was a major turning point in my life. Moving from initial hesitation to guiding young children with ease taught me two vital lessons: Communication and Patience. Seeing my students improve brings a sense of achievement even more thrilling than winning an award myself.
The recent Leadership Training Camp was a true "baptism" for me. It forced me to step out of my comfort zone and reflect on teamwork and the courage needed to face adversity. These experiences made me realise that swimming is not just about learning strokes; it’s about learning how to be a better person.
I firmly believe that "Not Only Sport, It's Life." Swimming is merely the medium—building character is the core. In the days to come, I will carry this spirit forward within "The Kids" family, passing on this positive energy to every young swimmer who loves life.
🏊♂️ 【13 Years of Water, a Lifetime of Nourishment. I am Tong Ngao Yin】
From the age of 5 to 18, "The Kids" has witnessed my entire youth. Growing up, I spent more than half of my time in the water; for me, this foundation has long been more than just a place to swim—it is my second home.
My 13-year swimming journey was not smooth sailing from the start. I remember being terrified of the water as a young child and having poor coordination. It was the professionalism and warmth of the coaches at "The Kids" that pulled me back from the brink of quitting and helped me slowly build my confidence in the water.
This confidence not only allowed me to earn my lifesaving qualifications but also opened the door to teaching. Transitioning from a student to an Assistant Instructor was a major turning point in my life. Moving from initial hesitation to guiding young children with ease taught me two vital lessons: Communication and Patience. Seeing my students improve brings a sense of achievement even more thrilling than winning an award myself.
The recent Leadership Training Camp was a true "baptism" for me. It forced me to step out of my comfort zone and reflect on teamwork and the courage needed to face adversity. These experiences made me realise that swimming is not just about learning strokes; it’s about learning how to be a better person.
I firmly believe that "Not Only Sport, It's Life." Swimming is merely the medium—building character is the core. In the days to come, I will carry this spirit forward within "The Kids" family, passing on this positive energy to every young swimmer who loves life.
Ms. Chan Sze Ki
🏊♂️ 【Starting from the Pool: My 12-Year Journey of Growth】
My name is Sze Ki Chan, and I am 16 years old. These 12 years of swimming with "The Kids" have been the most vital nourishment for my growth.
Looking back at the beginning, I remember feeling frustrated whenever I missed my goals. It was my coaches’ patience and encouragement that taught me the value of hard work and showed me how to never give up. Beyond improving my technique, I am grateful to "The Kids" for guiding me to earn my professional lifesaving qualifications and providing the opportunity to give back as an Assistant Instructor.
The transition from student to educator wasn't without its hurdles—I initially struggled with how to communicate effectively and ensure children understood my instructions. With the mentorship of senior coaches, I gradually learned how to observe each child's unique traits. Achieving this level of confidence and ease gave me a sense of accomplishment I had never experienced before.
During the recent Leadership Training Camp, I gained a brand-new understanding of what it means to be a "Leader." Learning to communicate and empathise with others is an experience that will be crucial for my future growth and my ability to contribute to society.
I will always uphold the spirit of "Not Only Sport, It's Life." To me, the pool is a microcosm of life. I will carry forward this perseverance and compassion, ensuring the spirit of "The Kids" continues to inspire future generations.
🏊♂️ 【Starting from the Pool: My 12-Year Journey of Growth】
My name is Sze Ki Chan, and I am 16 years old. These 12 years of swimming with "The Kids" have been the most vital nourishment for my growth.
Looking back at the beginning, I remember feeling frustrated whenever I missed my goals. It was my coaches’ patience and encouragement that taught me the value of hard work and showed me how to never give up. Beyond improving my technique, I am grateful to "The Kids" for guiding me to earn my professional lifesaving qualifications and providing the opportunity to give back as an Assistant Instructor.
The transition from student to educator wasn't without its hurdles—I initially struggled with how to communicate effectively and ensure children understood my instructions. With the mentorship of senior coaches, I gradually learned how to observe each child's unique traits. Achieving this level of confidence and ease gave me a sense of accomplishment I had never experienced before.
During the recent Leadership Training Camp, I gained a brand-new understanding of what it means to be a "Leader." Learning to communicate and empathise with others is an experience that will be crucial for my future growth and my ability to contribute to society.
I will always uphold the spirit of "Not Only Sport, It's Life." To me, the pool is a microcosm of life. I will carry forward this perseverance and compassion, ensuring the spirit of "The Kids" continues to inspire future generations.
Mr. Yiu Ho Chiu
🏊♂️ 【From Water-Timid Boy to Leader: My 12 Years with The Kids】
My name is Yiu Ho Chiu, and I am now entering my 12th year in my swimming journey with "The Kids". Looking back at the little boy who was once too terrified of water to even move, to now being able to swim hundreds of metres with ease, this path has been both solid and profound.
I originally joined "The Kids" through a friend’s recommendation, hearing that the coaches here were exceptionally caring and attentive to children. Facing my fear of submerging, the coaches never scolded me; instead, they patiently practised breathing with me and helped me build my confidence. This support allowed me to progress from a student to earning my lifesaving qualifications, and eventually gave me the opportunity to pick up the whistle and teach beginner classes.
The initial hesitation when I started teaching was an inevitable hurdle, but within "The Kids" family, I was never alone. Under the guidance of senior coaches and mentors, I learned the arts of communication and expression, and more importantly, the meaning of responsibility. My recent participation in the Leadership Training Camp further taught me how to lead a team through challenges. The "perseverance" and "cooperation" I learned in the pool will serve as the strongest foundation for my future studies and life in society.
To me, "Not Only Sport, It's Life" is not just a slogan; it is a true reflection of my life. I hope to become a carrier of this positive energy, helping more children learn persistence through swimming and continuing this legacy of self-confidence.
🏊♂️ 【From Water-Timid Boy to Leader: My 12 Years with The Kids】
My name is Yiu Ho Chiu, and I am now entering my 12th year in my swimming journey with "The Kids". Looking back at the little boy who was once too terrified of water to even move, to now being able to swim hundreds of metres with ease, this path has been both solid and profound.
I originally joined "The Kids" through a friend’s recommendation, hearing that the coaches here were exceptionally caring and attentive to children. Facing my fear of submerging, the coaches never scolded me; instead, they patiently practised breathing with me and helped me build my confidence. This support allowed me to progress from a student to earning my lifesaving qualifications, and eventually gave me the opportunity to pick up the whistle and teach beginner classes.
The initial hesitation when I started teaching was an inevitable hurdle, but within "The Kids" family, I was never alone. Under the guidance of senior coaches and mentors, I learned the arts of communication and expression, and more importantly, the meaning of responsibility. My recent participation in the Leadership Training Camp further taught me how to lead a team through challenges. The "perseverance" and "cooperation" I learned in the pool will serve as the strongest foundation for my future studies and life in society.
To me, "Not Only Sport, It's Life" is not just a slogan; it is a true reflection of my life. I hope to become a carrier of this positive energy, helping more children learn persistence through swimming and continuing this legacy of self-confidence.
Ms. Lam Cheuk Wing
🏊♂️【Thirteen Years at The Kids: My Path from Student to Coach】
My name is Lam Cheuk Wing, and I am 16 years old. During my 13 years of swimming with "The Kids", I have undergone the most significant transformation of my life: evolving from a water-timid child into an assistant instructor with a passion for teaching.
This journey was not always smooth sailing. At the age of three, I was the child who would cry and even vomit during lessons. I am profoundly grateful to my coaches, whose incredible patience finally welcomed me into the world of water. After joining the swim team, faced with grueling technical corrections and the pressure of competition, their dedicated mentorship taught me to strive for perfection and helped me earn many unforgettable awards.
I am thankful to "The Kids" for providing the opportunity to earn professional qualifications, allowing me to give back in a new capacity. Moving from the initial helplessness and hesitation of teaching to now confidently guiding children—and feeling the immense satisfaction of seeing them progress—has truly shaped my sense of responsibility.
Through the recent Leadership Training Camp and various volunteer services, I have come to realize the vital importance of communication and collaboration. These experiences have forged my willpower, teaching me that whether in my studies or on the pool deck, when faced with difficulties, one should try a different approach rather than turning away in escape.
I will continue to live out the spirit of "Not Only Sport, It's Life." What I hope to pass on to the next generation is not just a graceful swimming stroke, but a life philosophy of never giving up.
🏊♂️【Thirteen Years at The Kids: My Path from Student to Coach】
My name is Lam Cheuk Wing, and I am 16 years old. During my 13 years of swimming with "The Kids", I have undergone the most significant transformation of my life: evolving from a water-timid child into an assistant instructor with a passion for teaching.
This journey was not always smooth sailing. At the age of three, I was the child who would cry and even vomit during lessons. I am profoundly grateful to my coaches, whose incredible patience finally welcomed me into the world of water. After joining the swim team, faced with grueling technical corrections and the pressure of competition, their dedicated mentorship taught me to strive for perfection and helped me earn many unforgettable awards.
I am thankful to "The Kids" for providing the opportunity to earn professional qualifications, allowing me to give back in a new capacity. Moving from the initial helplessness and hesitation of teaching to now confidently guiding children—and feeling the immense satisfaction of seeing them progress—has truly shaped my sense of responsibility.
Through the recent Leadership Training Camp and various volunteer services, I have come to realize the vital importance of communication and collaboration. These experiences have forged my willpower, teaching me that whether in my studies or on the pool deck, when faced with difficulties, one should try a different approach rather than turning away in escape.
I will continue to live out the spirit of "Not Only Sport, It's Life." What I hope to pass on to the next generation is not just a graceful swimming stroke, but a life philosophy of never giving up.