Instructors

Stranraer Water Sports Association is supported by a small team of experienced instructors who run and develop the activities and deliver certificated training. Find out more about the team below.

Tom Wilson

Chief Instructor

Tell us about yourself!

I started sailing when I was 8, fell in love with it and couldn’t get enough! I started helping out at my local sailing centre as a teenager and really enjoyed helping other people learn new skills and develop as individuals. Becoming an instructor has allowed me to travel and work throughout UK and around the world.

Did you always want to be an instructor?

When I was a kid I wanted to be a fighter pilot or a teacher – haven’t done either, but my job is pretty close to being a teacher.

What is your favourite water sports activity?

Sailing. But to be honest, I just love the freedom of being on the water.

Who is your role model?

My grandfather. He had a big heart, was firm but fair, a hard worker, a family man, a font of all knowledge with a photographic memory and had a great sense of humour.

What is your favourite food?

Bangers and Mash.

What is your favourite animal?

A dog, labrador to be exact! If you come to SWSA you are most likely to meet my sidekick – Max.

Iain Munro

Instructor

Tell us about yourself!

Growing up in Scotland I had amazing opportunities to get outdoors. My earliest and favourite memories are on long distance cycling camping trips all across the country with my dad. Being in the outdoors was and still is my happy place.

After leaving school I bounced around a wide range of jobs but I always have a foot in the outdoors though volunteering with the scouts and at a bird of prey centre.

Did you always want to be an instructor?

No, when I was younger I wanted to be a fireman. In 2016 I was looking for a career change and having enjoyed outdoor pursuits all my life I took a leap and got my first full time instructor job and it has been the best decision I have ever made.

What is your favourite water sports activity?

I am a bit high energy and love the speed of jet skis and powerboats but I also love the technical side to sailing and paddling.

Who is your role model?

For a long time now it has been my uncle who has inspired me he followed his dreams with his wife and sailed round the world. During their journey disaster struck and his determination and courage during that challenging time has inspired me ever since.

What is your favourite food?

Probably a kabab

What is your favourite animal?

I don't have a favourite I am very fond of all animals apart from snakes

Sailing at Stranraer Water Sports Association Loch Ryan

Become an instructor

We run a Young Instructor training programme each year to encourage more people to develop the skills, confidence and experience to become instructors.

Find out more

Jobs

As an expanding organisation, any new vacancies or opportunities for freelance instructors will be posted on the jobs page on our website.