3 minute read
From Community Clubs to the World Stage
From Community Clubs to the World Stage
Written by Nikita Blom
There is a common misconception that GPS schools are exclusive in the accessibility of their world-class facilities and programs, however Jack Coates and Bobby Jovanovich are rewriting that narrative.
The Brisbane Grammar School (BGS) Swimming Club stands as a beacon of excellence in both participation and performance, with the club cultivating a legacy that spans decades, nurturing young athletes from all around Brisbane and propelling them onto the world’s stage.
Head coach and Director of Swimming, Bobby Jovanovich knows too well about the foundations required to reach the top, turning to coaching after an 18-year swimming career, and swimming for Australia.
“[We are] actively working within the community to promote our world-class environment. Not only for our schoolboys, but also for the broader Queensland community,” Bobby said.
Over the previous decade, the club has produced numerous Australian National Champions who have represented Australia at Junior and Senior levels. In 2023 alone, 33 swimmers from BGS represented the club at the Queensland Championships, with many other achievers arising from other local schools too.
Similarly, the BGS Gymnastics Club, under the direction of Head Coach and Club Director Jack Coates, stands as the country’s leading competitive boys’ gymnastics club since its inception in 2000.
Leveraging his experience as a former athlete, Jack has coached gymnasts across all levels, including state and national representatives. In addition to coaching, he dedicates time in the gym to mentoring coaches in the senior section and encourages early participation in the sport, starting from age four.
[We are] actively working within the community to promote our world-class environment. Not only for our schoolboys, but also for the broader Queensland community.- Bobby Jovanovich
“For two decades we’ve welcomed gymnasts from beginners all the way through to junior and senior international athletes, harnessing their abilities and helping them train towards their goals,” Jack said.
Many of the top coaches in the country call BGS home, and Jack describes them as “passionate and committed,” building and driving what is a fantastic sport for boys.
The BGS Gymnastics Club offers classes for boys in worldclass facilities, welcoming gymnasts from the wider community to train alongside BGS students. The gymnasium is equipped with Olympic standard apparatus and features a large foam pit with dismounts from all equipment, providing an ideal training environment for avid gymnasts.
