Cameron Leslie has been named New Zealand’s national Para swimming development coordinator ©Getty Images

Three-time Paralympic gold medallist Cameron Leslie has been appointed as New Zealand’s national Para swimming development coordinator.

The appointment was announced by Swimming NZ in partnership with Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ).

“This is a great opportunity to grow Para swimming and the pathways from a regional swimmer to higher honours,” said Leslie.

“We have talented athletes and officials in our region and we want to make sure they have the chance to further themselves.

“Swimming has changed my life and I want to share that with others and support the process to be even better for the next Para swimmer.

“My time in the sport has introduced me to a number of great people but I also look forward to meeting those who I may not have crossed paths with as an athlete.”

Cameron Leslie has secured three Paralympic gold medals during his career ©Getty Images
Cameron Leslie has secured three Paralympic gold medals during his career ©Getty Images

Leslie won men’s 150 metres individual medley SM4 gold at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games, before defending his title at both London 2012 and Rio 2016.

He will now be tasked with leading the development of a New Zealand Para swimming strategy.

Leslie will be based within SNZ and working closely with PNZ and other key stakeholders, it is claimed.

The aim will be to help coordinate a pathway from grassroots to high performance, as well as supporting clubs to develop and grow Para swimming.

He will begin his role at the end of October.