Testimonials

Here are some recent testimonials from our members...  

"I’ve learned a lot from Mat over the course of the last year. Not only does he have an incredible wealth of triathlon knowledge but he is able to communicate his knowledge clearly and effectively so as to enhance my overall skill set. The fact that he is also competing and excelling at a high level is a great asset as he truly understands the sport and all its tricks and nuances. He’s provides that extra morale support at the triathlons cheering his athletes on and helping them be the very best they can. Thanks Mat!"
-Alison
    
      "After being part of the Waterdown Fighting Koalas Triathlon Team for almost a year now I would say that the exciting and motivating training environment is unmatched. The extensive variety of workouts available means that there is something for everyone at times that work for everyone. After having several coaches throughout my time as a competitive swimmer I can honestly say that a coach like Mat is one of a kind; his experience and dedication to the team creates an environment where everyone can improve and reach their goals."
-Lauren Heinken

"Mat, If you need a poster boy for your lessons, I think I should be the guy.
Here is a summary of my swim time last year versus this year:

   * 2009 Guelph II Try (375M): 11:52 (3:10 per 100m)
   * 2010 Milton Sprint (750M): 13:54 (1:51 per 100m)

Basically, I have doubled my speed.  A sincere thank you and the Burlington Fighting Koalas.  The primary reason for me joining the Koalas was to improve my swimming...mission accomplished."
-Warren

   "My Name is Gilles. There are many things I enjoy about our Edmonton club and Jason our expert coach. I have not done many triathlons but I plan to continue 2 or 3 per season. My favourite area is swimming and I have gone from doing 50m in 50secs to recently doing 50m in 36sec. I have made huge improvements. All this I attribute to Jason and our team. There is a welcoming atmosphere as well as healthy competition. Our Friday practice I bring my 5 year old and can be at ease in the water working hard knowing she is looked after. These are just a few examples of how Jason goes above and beyond to make the team better and fun." -Gilles

    "Our son is Ross a junior member of the inagaural Niagara Fighting Koala Team.  He had a fabulous experience and we were impressed with his progress.  Laura taught him more about swimming this summer then in he learned in years of swimming lessons.  He developed as a runner and his marathon Friday night bike rides with Drew were the hi-points of his spring.  Ironically, the impact of this training has really shown in his hockey skills!  He is skating harder and faster and has more endurance than the majority of teamates!  He made his PeeWee Select team and is playing at a higher level then we have ever seen.  He is feeling great, and ready to get back to his "Koala time" once the hockey season ends.  Now, if only Koalas could do something about the amount of time he seems to spend in the penalty box...and let's hope Ross doesn't get confused and think triathlons are a contact sport!
...Mom is also thinking of joining next season too."
-Elizabeth Horsley - Ross's Mom

     "In 2008 I set my sights on participating in a triathlon.  The only thing holding
me back was not knowing how to swim!  In September 2008 I began taking
swimming lessons from Mat Reid.  With Mat’s encouragement I was able to learn
at my own pace and was never made to feel awkward or uncomfortable.  In June of
2009 I had gained the skills and the confidence to compete in my first triathlon,
skipping the tri-a-tri and going right to the sprint!"
-Joanne Thomson

    "I have had the privilege of being coached by Matt for the last three years and currently. He has had a huge impact as a coach in helping me achieve my goals as a Triathlete. He's an expert on swimming technique and I have noticed a great difference in my swim splits since I started with Matt 3 years ago. Matt's many years off experience will continue to help many triathlete's strive to be the best they can be, not just as a athlete but a better person."
-Amy Mausser

 

"As someone picking up triathlon swimming, Mat has been invaluable. One by one, he corrected my kick, timing, pull and breathing. In 5 weeks he helped me to drop a minute from my 100m and made me much more confident in reaching my goals this season."
-Maciej

“The thing that has impressed me most about being part of Mat’s “family” is how easy the progression has been to feel my best. I’ve always stayed in my comfort zone and have gradually seen great results in my fitness and the positive energy I bring to both my home and my work. Mat’s secret is creating a caring, accepting environment that makes everybody feel comfortable from day one.”
-Barry