Clifford Barry was introduced to competitive swimming at 15 years of age. During his university years, he swam for both Western University and Concordia University. Cliff then discovered his passion for water polo. He became a two-time Olympic water polo player for Team Canada and competed at the 1972 & 1976 Games. Cliff was a stand out player on the team for many years. He understood the importance of team discipline and quality training.
When his athletic career came to an end, Cliff decided to pursue a coaching career in swimming. Cliff was the Head Coach of the national team for many years and coached Victor Davis to gold in the 200m Breaststroke at the 1984 Olympic Games. Cliff was known for being a caring but demanding coach. In 2016, the Canadian Swim Coaches and Teachers Association (CSCTA) added Clifford Barry into their Hall of Fame.
In this podcast episode, Cliff shares what inspired him to become an olympic level athlete and coach. Cliff explains how coaching came into his life and why he was awarded Canadian Swimming Coach of the Year three times in his coaching career.
Cliff talks about his experience coaching Victor Davis to Gold and setting world-records in 200m Breaststroke at both the 1982 World Championships and 1984 Olympic Games. Cliff comments on the book "The Talent Code" by Daniel Coyle. He believes; hard work and talent is needed to succeed at anything.
As a coach, Cliff had an incredible ability to connect with every swimmer. He did not treat everyone the same. Instead, he knew how to connect with each swimmer on a deeper level than most coaches do. That was why so many swimmers loved swimming for him.
Cliff identifies what separates a good coach from great coach. He supports his reasons by highlighting the qualities that are needed for someone to become a world-class coach. Lastly, Cliff shares his definition on Greatness.
Podcast Host: Ben Mumme
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