Who we are
Founded with a passion for swimming excellence, Aqua Dolphin Swimming Club has established itself as a premier destination for competitive swimming in Cape Town.
Our journey began with a simple belief: that with the right guidance, dedication, and environment, every swimmer can achieve their personal best.
Our Philosophy
At Aqua Dolphin, we understand that competitive swimming is about more than just speed – it’s about discipline, technique, consistency and a drive to always perform at your personal best. Our training methodology focuses on:
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We emphasize proper stroke mechanics as the foundation for speed
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Carefully structured training plans that build skills systematically
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Balancing physical training with mental preparation and team building
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Focusing on sustainable progress rather than short-term gains
Our mission.
To provide swimmers with world-class coaching in a supportive community environment, empowering each athlete to reach their full potential both in and out of the pool.
Our vision.
To be recognized as one of South Africa’s leading swimming clubs, known for developing well-rounded athletes who excel in competitive swimming while embodying sportsmanship, dedication and teamwork.
Meet the Team
Mina Manoussakis
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Born in the volcanic South of Italy, Mina inherited tenacity, passion and a strong work ethic from her homeland. These qualities shaped her into the determined aquatics advocate she is today.
Attentive to innovations in sport, Mina believes swimming is essential for children's development and a fundamental human right. Her undeniable passion for swimming and open water competition drives her commitment to excellence.
Guided by her motto – "Never give up" – Mina has built a community where perseverance is celebrated and challenges become opportunities.
Phila Zita
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Learn to Swim Certificate
Swimming South Africa Level 1
ASCA Level 1, 2 & 3
ASCA Advanced Freestyle, Breaststroke, Backstroke Butterfly
Currently completing:
ASCA Strength & Conditioning
Phila is a dedicated swimming coach who joined the club in 2019 after moving to Cape Town in 2014. He holds impressive credentials.
He is driven by the belief that swimming is an essential life skill that all children should acquire. Phila is equally passionate about introducing and promoting competitive swimming as a sport to people of all ages, helping them discover both the practical benefits and competitive excitement of swimming.
Dean Price
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With an illustrious career that includes coaching Olympic gold medalists and Paralympic champions, Dean brings unparalleled expertise to our pool. From his own days as a record-breaking swimmer to becoming one of South Africa's most respected coaches, his journey inspires us all.
As an External Adviser, Dean will be actively mentoring and overseeing our coaching team – Coaches Phila and Cole.
Dean will be brings a revolutionary coaching methodology already proven successful by top international coaches to the Aqua Dolphin family.
Cole Siljeur
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Learn to Swim Certificate
Swimming South Africa Level 1
ASCA Level 1, 2 & 3
ASCA Advanced Freestyle, Breaststroke, Backstroke Butterfly
Currently completing:
ASCA Strength & Conditioning
Cole is a dedicated swimming coach with years of experience and a lifelong passion for the sport. He creates a positive, encouraging environment where young swimmers can develop their potential through personalized coaching that emphasizes proper technique, hard work, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
His coaching philosophy focuses on building a solid foundation, guiding swimmers from all levels.
Contact us
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