International Recognition for Local Diving Coaches
The expertise of local diving coaches continues to be recognized internationally, with former technical director of the national diving team, Bryan Nickson Lomas, being lured by an Asian country. His resignation as technical director of the national diving team comes a week after former national women’s diver Wendy Ng was appointed as the talent development coach for the Singapore national diving team.
Lomas’ Departure
Bryan left the national team on January 22 to further develop his coaching career. When contacted by Bernama today, he confirmed his departure, stating, "That’s right, I have left the national diving team. I got the offer last December. I can’t reveal the country first and what I can share is that it is an Asian country. I will update any development later."
A Glowing Career
Bryan, 34, created a sensation when he became the second youngest athlete in the world to compete at the 2004 Athens Olympics and was also crowned the world junior champion in the same year. After retiring in 2015, he was a part-time coach for the Selangor state team and then travelled to the Middle East to become an instructor for the Kazma Diving Club in Kuwait before being appointed as the technical director of the national diving team in October 2023.
Most Beautiful Moment
When asked about the most beautiful moment with the national team, Bryan said it was when he and his team helped young diver Nurqayyum Nazmi Mohamad Nazim end Malaysia’s 18-year drought to clinch a podium finish at the 2024 World Junior Diving Championships. At the championship, Nur Qayyum won a bronze medal in the men’s 3m springboard event (16 to 18 years old). "Even though it is not gold or silver, the bronze medal is indeed meaningful because Malaysia has not won a medal at the world youth championship for a long time," he said.
Confidence in MS
Bryan believes that Swimming Malaysia (MS) is able to find a better replacement than him to lead the national squad, which has great potential to be more successful in the future.
Conclusion
The departure of Bryan Nickson Lomas is a testament to the recognition of local diving coaches on the international stage. His experience and expertise will be missed, but the national team is confident that they can find a suitable replacement to lead the team to success in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Bryan leave the national diving team?
A: Bryan left the national team to further develop his coaching career.
Q: Where is he going?
A: He is going to an Asian country.
Q: What is his new role?
A: He will be taking up a coaching position in an Asian country.
Q: What is his legacy with the national diving team?
A: Bryan was the technical director of the national diving team and played a key role in the team’s success, including helping young diver Nurqayyum Nazmi Mohamad Nazim win a bronze medal at the 2024 World Junior Diving Championships.