Meet our new head coach - Marie-Lou Morin!

Tauranga Synchro is delighted to introduce our new Head Coach - Marie-Lou Morin. 

Marie-Lou brings a wealth of experience both as a competitor and coach from one of the strongest nations in the world of synchro - Canada.

Marie-Lou was a member of the Canadian national teams (both junior & senior) for over 12 years. She has competed in both duet and team events at the national level, and has been to three World Championships and the Pan American Games. She has also built a strong base of coaching experience over her years in the sport.

Marie-Lou also takes on the role of Head Coach of the 2020 New Zealand Pikopiko Squad (15 & under). Want to find out more? We asked Marie-Lou some questions, and here is what she had to say...

Where are you from?

Montreal, Canada.

How did you get into synchro?

I was a super active kid and tried heaps of different sports like ski racing, dance and gymnastics. I've always loved water. My aunt had been in the sport for a long time as a coach, judge and referee and she is the one who suggested I try it and it stuck!

What do you love about synchro?

I love how artistic it is and how it is a sport that pushes you physically as well. I loved being part of a team and spending my days in the water.

What's your sporting highlight?

Winning the Pan American Games in my home country was an amazing experience, as was competing at three World Championships. Having had the honour to be team captain for six years was a great highlight as well.

Has anything embarrassing ever happened to you while performing?

I think the most embarrassing thing was when I had a hair gel malfunction. I came out in the middle of the routine and my hair was all over my face! I was trying to keep a big smile and act like everything was okay but I could tell my coach was furious, and the hair was very distracting!

What did you do after retiring from competitive synchronised swimming?

I performed aqua shows (a stage that turned into a pool) on two of the world’s biggest cruise ships. It was an amazing experience to help create the shows and then perform every night surrounded by a bunch of talented artists from all over the world. I got to travel around Europe and in the Caribbean. It was an incredible experience! 

What's your best advice for new swimmers?

Word hard and always push yourself but remember to have fun! At the end of the day, it is only a sport and it should make you happy.

What is your coaching philosophy?

I want the girls to thrive in the sport but also be able to apply what they learn into real life situations. Work hard but have fun.

When you're not coaching, what are you doing?

Napping. I love napping! I also love to hang out with friends and cook.

What are five words you would use to describe yourself?

Thoughtful, honest, always laughing, positive, supportive.

What are three things people may not know about you?

I am originally from China, but I was adopted at 18 months by my family in Canada.  I have 3 brothers and one sister, 8 nephews and 3 nieces and I am the only Asian in the family.

Also, I starred in a 2016 documentary about the Canadian synchronised swimming team called Perfect.

Welcome to Tauranga Synchro Marie-Lou! We're delighted to have you with us.