Life Membership Awarded to Roger Eagles
New Zealand Masters Swimming is delighted to announce that Roger Eagles has received Life Membership of NZMS in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Masters Swimming over more than four decades. The NZMS Executive Committee unanimously approved the award in June 2026.
More Than 40 Years of Service
Roger has been a Masters swimmer since 1984. During that time, he has made an extraordinary contribution to the sport at club, national and international levels.
He served as President of New Zealand Masters Swimming from 2006 to 2012 and as Chairman of Aquatics New Zealand from 2006 to 2022. Roger also represented the Masters Swimming community internationally. He was a member of the FINA Masters Committee, later known as the World Aquatics Masters Committee, from 2009 to 2025.
These leadership roles allowed Roger to support the growth of Masters Swimming and advocate for swimmers throughout New Zealand and around the world.
Preserving the History of Masters Swimming
Roger’s contribution extends beyond governance and administration. In 2014, he published a book on the history of Masters Swimming in New Zealand.
His work recorded the development of the sport and preserved the achievements of generations of swimmers, volunteers and administrators. Because of this effort, future members can better understand and appreciate the people who helped build the Masters Swimming movement.
Recognising a Lasting Contribution
The award of Roger Eagles Life Membership recognises both his many years of service and his lasting influence on the sport.
Roger has consistently demonstrated leadership, commitment and a passion for the Masters Swimming community. His efforts have strengthened the sport in New Zealand and helped shape its direction internationally.
The Roger Eagles Life Membership award acknowledges an exceptional record of service spanning more than 40 years. It also recognises the positive impact he has had on swimmers, clubs and sporting organisations throughout that time.
New Zealand Masters Swimming is proud to honour Roger’s achievements through the award of Life Membership. We extend our sincere congratulations and thank him for his dedication, leadership and outstanding service to Masters Swimming.