My Memories of Duncan Laing
By Ivan Johnstone. Written for Testimonial Dinner book of tributes 2006
Duncan Laing became the new coach at Moana Pool shortly before the 1966 Nationals. I was 16 years old at the time in my first year as a senior swimmer. The previous coach, a popular coach with his squad, had left Moana Pool at the worst of times a number of weeks before the Nationals. Bill Hammond, a pool attendant at the time, and a number of Otago Centre amateur coaches had filled the breech until Duncan arrived in Dunedin. Duncan accompanied the Otago team to the nationals, but he did not press himself on us. That was not his manner or style. Instead, he was quietly there for us in the background to lend support when needed. Ever since his arrival in Dunedin Dunc has been a steadfast rock of support to hundreds of squad members regardless of the levels of success they may have achieved under his charge.
One of my fondest memories of Dunc is of him arriving for the early morning training sessions at Moana Pool, a big man in a small car. To this day I do not know how Dunc, Betty, and their kids managed to all fit into that baby Austin. I learnt to drive in that Austin, as I am sure a number of other squad members did too. Dunc has been like a second Father to many of us. He has been generous to a fault not only to his squad members, but also to the general public and especially those less fortunate. Dunc’s swimming lessons at night were notorious for running late because time was immaterial to Dunc. He had a task to do, and that was to teach the kids to swim. But no parent or child minded because they knew that Dunc was dedicated to his vocation and the kids were the ones who benefited.
Dunc has been my coach then mentor, boss, and friend for over four decades and my life has been enriched by knowing him. I am so pleased for Dunc and Betty that the swimming fraternity and Dunedin citizens are honouring his dedication, selflessness, and success with a Testimonial Dinner. I look forward to being there to wish Dunc and Betty a happy and long retirement.