Hundreds gather to remember legendary swimming coach Ken Wood

There was standing room only as Olympians, coaches, swimmers, friends, family and community members gathered to honour the life of Ken Wood.

There was standing room only as Olympians, coaches, swimmers, friends, family and community members gathered to honour the life of Ken Wood.

Wood passed away on June 16, aged 88.

He was known for turning talented swimmers into Olympians, including Leisel Jones, Jessicah Schipper and Geoff Huegill.

All three swimming stars attended the memorial ­service, held on Tuesday at the Redcliffe Leagues Club.

Olympic swimmer Jessica Schipper (centre) attends the memorial service for Australian swimming coach Kenneth (Ken) Wood. AAP/Dan Peled

Olympic swimmer Geoff Huegill attends the memorial service for Australian swimming coach Kenneth (Ken) Wood on June 26, AAP /Dan Peled

Olympic swimmer Leisel Jones at the memorial service for Australian swimming coach Kenneth (Ken) Wood. AAP /Dan Peled

Mr Huegill, who lived with Wood when he was a teenager, said it was a “beautiful day” and a fitting tribute.

“They summed him up a treat,” he said.

Long-time friend and ­fellow coach Bill Sweetenham shared many memories of Wood during the service.

“Ken was a trusted and true friend who had the ability to bring out the best whether it was staff or athletes,” he said.

Redcliffe City High Performance Centre pool manager Kim Darra spoke about the many quirks Wood had.

Kim Darra speaks at the memorial service for Australian swimming coach Kenneth (Ken) Wood. AAP /Dan Peled

“He was tough but fair,” Ms Darra said.

“If there is a pool up in heaven I’m sure he will be pacing up and down the pool deck barking orders.”

She said it had been a privilege to work with him over the past 17 years.