Hedger was elected from the South East Region of England and will serve as the President for the following one year term, 2014-2015.

"I would like to thank the South East Region for nominating me and also to my wife Janet for all her support and encouragement," said Hedger.

"This is an exciting time for the ASA as we look forward to welcoming our new chief executive officer, Adam Paker, in November and embark on our new swimming competition structure in the new year.

"I am aware of the extremely high standards that have been set by my predecessors and I make a commitment that these will be maintained in my year of office.

"I look forward to working with everyone involved with the ASA."

Raymond Hedger (right) succeeds former ASA President Simon Rothwell who has held the position for the last 12 months ©Alex Whitehead/SWPix.com



Hedger has a strong aquatics background, having played water polo during his youth, as well as showing a keen interest in rowing.

After his children were born he became an active member of Woking Swimming Club, qualifying as a swimming teacher and club coach before becoming an ASA Tutor and Suffolk County Amateur Swimming Association swimming official.

He went on to hold a hold a number of positions at County, District and Regional level and in 2012 was elected President of the South East Region.

Hedger succeeds former President Simon Rothwell, who has held the position for the last 12 months.

"I would like to thank the Association for their support over the last year and extend my congratulations and best wishes to Ray and Janet for the year ahead," said Rothwell.

The position of ASA President is elected by the Regions in rotation.

Hedger was nominated by the South East Region and confirmed at the ASA's Annual Council meeting held on October 18 in Birmingham.

John Bird from the South West Region was elected to the position of vice-president.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


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