Sportsman of the Year – Simon’s Story

Squadron Leader Simon Almond, currently serving as Officer Commanding Force Development Squadron at RAF Odiham, scooped the RAF Sportsman of the Year Award at the RAF Sports Awards last month.

It was for his achievements in the pool as part of the RAF’s successful water polo team that saw this recognition bestowed upon him, and we caught up with Simon to talk through his journey in the RAF, his passion for water polo and his gratitude for the support provided by the RAF Central Fund.

Simon’s career in the RAF began in 2004 when he joined and subsequently graduated as a Physical Training Instructor (PTI) in 2005. His diverse career path includes serving as a PTI at Cranwell and the Falkland Islands and transitioning to become an Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor (ERI), before moving to his current role in May this year.

Reflecting on his path to water polo, Simon said: “As a teen I used to swim competitively, and luckily my club also had a water polo team. After watching them play I thought it seemed more enjoyable than the endless length after length swim sets, so I transitioned from swimmer to water polo player!

Sport has been hugely important to me both before and during my Service career.  As a youngster water polo provided me focus, friends and some great role models to look up to, but most of all loads of fun laughs and funny stories travelling all around the South-West to play matches.

During my career, water polo and the RAF Swimming Association (RAFSA) have provided me with most of my best moments and memories, with opportunities galore, including working on the poolside at the 2012 Olympics, travelling all over Europe and the US, coaching the GB Junior Men’s Team and playing for some of the best water polo clubs in the UK.

Winning the British Championships with Cheltenham was special but reclaiming the Inter-Service trophy from the Army this year tops the list. It was a testament to teamwork and dedication, and being named Sportsman of the Year was the icing on the cake.

Receiving the award was a tremendous honour. It’s a recognition not just for me but for the entire RAF Water Polo Team. It made me appreciate the support from the Central Fund, RAFSA, my mates, and especially my family. Winning as a team, that’s the true victory.

The Central Fund has been a game-changer.

I’ve only been able to dedicate time to playing and improving my game because of the support of my entire family, but especially my wife and mother, who have constantly picked up the slack to enable me to play and coach in the sport that I love.  Playing with the RAF Team continues to be the highlight of my career and the opportunity to captain the RAF Team is the most incredible honour.

The Central Fund has been a game-changer. Their continuous support has made it possible for me to compete at the highest levels. Without their funding, the expenses of competing in Europe and across the UK would have been a significant challenge.

To support the Fund’s work, I have played the RAF Sports Lottery ever since I joined as I’ve always been an advocate for sport in the RAF.  I passionately believe it plays a huge role in the Service and the development of our people.”

Sqn Ldr Simon Almond