Our Coaches
Michelle Vlasakova
Head Coach
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Michelle is a former professional swimmer and former member of the Czech National Swimming team for multiple years, holding 7 titles as a Czech National swimming champion in freestyle and breaststroke events.
Her calm and professional approach to swim coaching sets her apart from most other swim coaches in South Africa.
By using her knowledge and experiences gained through swimming in Europe and USA with former Olympians and Olympic coaches, she has developed a modern and innovative coaching style. She is determined to be the best swim coach in South Africa and to exceed the expectations at Plavani United Club with a positive contribution to the South African sporting community.
Nico Sterk
Assistant Coach
- Triathlon and open water coach
- Elite South African triathlete and co-owner of SterkSpan Coaching Academy
His multi-sport achievements rank among the best in South Africa with countless top podium finishes both locally and internationally. Nico's technical knowledge in sport have helped him coach top athletes such as Thabang Madiba to become the best trail running athlete in South Africa (Thabang is the 2013 and 2014 SA National trail running champion). His ability to prepare and advice athletes have helped countless of athletes achieving their sporting goals ranging from the most brutal Ironman events to swimming the Midmar Mile.
www.sterkspan.co.za

Annerie Kruger
Biokinetics Coach
(B.Sc. Sport Science (Hons) and B.Sc. Biokinetics)
Practice nr: 0415707
Annerie heads the conditioning development and training for all competitive swimmers of Plavani United. She has extensive knowledge in improving shoulder mobility and muscle activation, which plays a key part in enhancing performance in swimming.
On weekly basis she conducts conditioning sessions for the academy specifically designed for children under the age of 18 years.
Annerie also offers other sports related advice and services such as:
- Design of conditioning gym-training programs for adults competing in swimming and multi sports events
- Sports recovery and muscle stimulation massage therapy
- Health and fitness evaluations of patients with chronic diseases and the management of their exercise programs
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Vitality fitness assessments and related assessments
Please feel free to contact Annerie to book a consultation or sport massage.

Natasha Fourie
Assistant Coach, Kids Learn to Swim
Natasha is a former swimmer and active triathlete. She assists Michelle in coaching her competitive swimmers and heads the kids learn to swim (water safety) groups. Natasha is passionate about coaching, healthy lifestyle and wellness.
Natasha's qualifications/certificates:
- B-Tech Degree - Sports & Exercise Science at Tshwane University of Technology
- International Institution for Sport Science and Fitness Training (IIFT) - Certified Fitness Specialist
- LTS Swimming Coach - Swim SA
- Advanced Sports Massage at HPC