Sophie Pascoe with her long-time coach, Roly Crichton. Photo: Photosport NZ
His 20 years coaching disabled swimmers, including superstar Paralympian Sophie Pascoe, has seen Roly Crichton named as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit. The recognition of his services to Paralympic sport includes his own medal winning successes as past Paralympic Games.
He was the first disabled coach to be named the New Zealand Swim Coaches and Teachers Coach of the Year - that was in 2014. Mr Crichton has also coached triathletes and the Canterbury Wheelchair Basketball team.
