Neil Barrett is the new academy head coach

We are extremely excited to welcome Neil Barrett to the Boardworks Diving Academy family as our new head coach and program manager. Not only are we adding an excellent coach, but with Neil we are bringing someone with an amazing track record and whose competitive and personal qualities are recognized by all who have worked with him over 4 decades in the diving community.

As our head coach and program director, Neil will use his vast diving experience to create a safe, developmental, and positive training environment for divers of all ages and skill levels. Neil has represented Canada as both an athlete and coach and has been a national record holder - earning a bronze medal for Canada at the World Student Games. His coaching philosophy is anchored in athlete-driven goal-setting supported by the action plans, empowerment, and the personal accountability required to achieve them. He is an NCCP Competitive Development Certified diving coach, has a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education, and has a Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA). Neil has a proven ability to lead the growth of diving programs and to nurture the development of divers within them. He is looking forward to being a key part of the BDA team.

Over the next weeks and months leading up to the new 2026-27 season, Neil will work with our coaching staff and our board to outline plans and strategies. We will organize a meet-and-greet with everyone later this summer.