Age Group Head Coach

Dave Macdonald

Dave Macdonald is the Age Group Head Coach of the University of Calgary Swim Club.

Driven by the belief that the consistent pursuit of daily improvements leads to success, Dave has worked to instill a love of challenge and commitment in the athletes he coaches since arriving in Calgary in 2016.

​​​​​​​Dave's swimming journey began in Mississauga, Ontario, at the age of 9 and continued throughout his high school years. His passion for swimming persisted while he pursued a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Victoria. During his varsity career, Dave represented Team B.C. at the 2001 Canada Games and earned a bronze medal for the Vikes in the 200 backstroke at the 2002 CIS (U Sports) Championships.

Through his coaching years, Dave has worked with countless young and aspiring athletes with many accomplishing National podium finishes as well as Provincial and National Records. These swimmers have gone on to be part of Provincial Teams, Junior National Teams, and National Teams. Dave is certified as an NCCP Level 3 Senior Coach and has been part of the coaching staff for tours including the 2013 Canada Games (Team AB), 2017 Swim AB Emerge Tour, 2022 Swim AB Aspire Tour, and the 2014 Junior Pan Pacific Championships.

Off the deck, Dave volunteers countless hours with Swim Alberta. He has been a member of the Alberta Technical Program Committee since 2013 and has acted as Chair since 2016. Dave has been recognized several times for his contribution to coaching in Alberta including receiving the Provincial Age Group Coach of the Year Award multiple times and the Larry Nielson Memorial Award in 2023.