Cathy sits at the helm of a dragon boat, coaching her team.
Cathy Johnson, a dedicated coach at the Lambton Shores Dragon Boat Club since its inception in 2008, started her coaching journey as a high school coach. Some of her students approached her when they found out that she participated in Dragon Boat Racing, and asked if they could start their own team – and her foray into coaching dragon boat racing began.
For Cathy, coaching is about sharing knowledge and nurturing the same joy she once felt as an athlete. Witnessing those “aha moments” when her team members grasp the nuances of technique is particularly rewarding.
Speaking about the mental health benefits of sports, Cathy highlights the serene escape dragon boating offers—nature, water, and the rhythmic paddle strokes provide a cleansing experience. Team bonding is central, as teammates bolster and support each other both on and off the boat. Cathy herself has been part of the team, valuing the unity that the sport fosters.
In offering advice to potential coaches, Cathy urges them not to shy away from stepping up and seeking mentorship. She points to the rewarding nature of coaching, where success extends beyond sports into shaping individuals as they transition into adulthood.
Cathy’s pride shines through when discussing her most significant accomplishment: the recent world championships in Thailand. The club’s athletes, under her guidance, brought home titles and contributed to Team Canada’s victory, making her an integral part of a remarkable achievement. Cathy’s dedication to the Lambton Shores Dragon Boat Club exemplifies the positive impact that local coaches can have on their communities and the world of sports.
To hear more from Cathy, listen to the full interview below:
Written by: B. Shakyaver