WELSH SUMMER OPEN 2023:
Days Hrs Mins Secs

Meet the Staff

Simon Roach portrait with athletic track background
Simon Roach

I have an unprecedented passion for Weightlifting and it’s development in Wales. I am fortunate to have been involved in the sport for over 30 years, both as a competitor and coach. I have been delighted to represent Wales at 5 Commonwealth Games in both coach and team manager positions. Following a successful career in teaching, it is now a pleasure to develop all aspects of this great sport in our principality.

Hannah Powell in warm-up room at 2018 Commonwealth Games
Hannah Powell

I am the Business Support Officer for Weightlifting Wales, which involves working in administration and governance areas of the organisation. I am very passionate about the sport, both as a member of staff and as an athlete!

Ania Negele attending the IWF Women's Coaching Conference
Ania Negele

I am the Performance Pathway Manager here at Weightlifting Wales which involves implementing and managing the performance side of the organisation. I have had the privileged to represent Wales as a coach at the last two Commonwealth Games. If you are interested in the performance side of weightlifting or para powerlifting please get in touch ania.negele@weightlifting.wales

Christie Williams in Welsh Lifting suit smiles for a shot with a loaded weightlifting bar
Christie Williams

I have worked in sport and the health and fitness industry for 10 years. I used to be an international athlete in athletics, competing in the 100m and Javelin before taking up Weightlifting 8 years ago. I have been lucky enough to compete at 2 Commonwealth Games and have a Commonwealth Bronze medal.

I attended the University of South Wales and received a 2:1 in BSc Strength and Conditioning. My role at WW is the North Wales Development Manager. I would like to develop the talent squad and provide education on UKAD, technique and health and wellbeing. I would like to provide guidance and assistance to clubs in developing a community for all to enjoy participating in Weightlifting.

Justin head
Justin Head

I have been involved in Weightlifting for over 30 years and I still lift as a Master. I coach at my own my own small club where we have a small but diverse community of lifters. I have previously worked in the role of Reginal Development Officer and Competition Manager. As Events Manager I am now involved with the planning and organisation of competitive and non-competitive events and the delivery of the 2020 Strategy.