ABOUT TASC
The TASC family is run entirely by volunteers and we are always welcome of extra support. If you are interested in getting involved, just have a chat with one of the team. Funding is always available to cover any training required.
COACHING TEAM
Our amazing team of volunteer coaches is here to make swimming fun, inclusive, and rewarding for everyone—from beginners to seasoned competitors. They bring energy, support, and a big dose of encouragement to every session.
CLUB CAPTAINS
Our captains lead by example, demonstrating dedication and excellence in the pool while motivating others to reach their potential. They foster team spirit, support every swimmer, and act as a vital link between coaches and members to ensure a positive, inclusive environment.
COMMITTEE
Working in the background keeping TASC moving forward. You can usually find one or more of us poolside at training sessions, please feel free to approach us with any questions about the club.
History of Torridgeside Amateur Swimming Club
Torridgeside Amateur Swimming Club traces its roots back to April 1966, when Bideford Swimming Club was re-established after a lapse of almost ten years. The revival was led by Mr Jim Needs, Mr Cyril Webber, and a dedicated group of interested parents.
The earliest available records date from 1969, when club membership stood at 131 juniors (aged 14 and under) and 20 senior swimmers (ages not recorded). Training initially took place at the patio pool in Westward Ho! with winter sessions held at the small indoor pool at Lenwood Country Club.
In 1976, following much discussion, the committee decided to relocate training to Torrington. Some members feared this move would result in swimmers being lost to North Devon Dolphins, who also trained there. In practice, the opposite occurred: the club began attracting swimmers from the Torrington area, leading to significant growth. As a result, at the 1977 Annual General Meeting, the decision was taken to change the club’s name, and Torridgeside Amateur Swimming Club was born.
A new club logo was commissioned, incorporating heraldic elements from the coats of arms of Torrington. This design was created by Jim Paterson of Bideford Art College and remains the club’s logo to this day.
The club’s first Chief Coach was Jonny Andrews, an ASA tutor who played a pivotal role in the club’s development. He actively encouraged parents to gain ASA qualifications as teachers, coaches, timekeepers, judges, and referees, laying strong foundations for the club’s volunteer base. Jonny stepped down from his coaching role at the 1979 AGM, passing responsibilities to Bob Miles.
The North Devon Mini League was founded in 1978 by Barnstaple, Ilfracombe, and Torridgeside, and later expanded to include teams such as North Devon, Exeter, Okehampton, and Tiverton.
Head Coaches:
Jonny Andrews (1976–1979)
Bob Miles (1979–1985)
Larry Hill (1985–2005)
Clifford Brown (2005–2008)
Laura Bennett (2008–2013)
Suzanne Tyrrell (2013–2018)
Andy Unstead (Present Head Coach)
Although the club did not win the Mini League until 1994, this marked the beginning of a dominant period, with Torridgeside going on to control the league for the following ten years.
In 1998, the club joined the Speedo League in the Third Division and achieved rapid success, rising to the First Division by 2001.
By 2019, Torridgeside Amateur Swimming Club had grown to approximately 150 members of all ages and abilities. With strong membership numbers and a continued commitment to development, the club looks forward with confidence to a successful future.
Information provided by Larry Hill, former Head Coach
Gender | Distance / m | Stroke | Age | Time | Event | Swimmer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Male | 25 | Freestyle | 5 | 35.94 | TASC Development Gala 2012 | Ruben Stacey |
JOIN TASC
To get in touch and book a trial, just click the link below and fill our our online form.
