I started tech diving in 2011 and had come across Steve while researching for the best instructors. Because I’m very picky I’d planned out my tech pathway and who would instruct me all the way to trimix! Because of Steve’s availability we actually managed to get our 5 days Sidemount training done in Ireland between the first and second weekend of my tec 45 course. In fact I dropped Steve to the airport on the way to finish training in Donegal.

Having had a week in Sidemount I had to go back to a Twinset to finish the course. It was fine, not a problem, but it was miles away from how good and trimmed I felt in Sidemount. That was the last time I dived a Twinset and I completed the rest of my tech training, including full hypoxic trimix training in Sidemount including dives to over 75m.

I’ve experienced a good range of dive instructors in my time, now being one myself! For work I actually advise on how to get the best performance out of people. Steve’s approach is exemplary. First there is an expert knowledge and experience base on which his teaching is founded. Diving Sidemount is not simply a matter of slinging a couple of tanks on your side. You need to test and refine the system and setup.

Steve has done this on trimix dives, cave dives and in all conditions. If he says moving a clip half an inch is a good idea, you can be certain he’s tried it all ways and that yep, it will work.

Steve places tremendous value on quality feedback. Not only do you get great in water coaching but everything is videoed. I’ve known him be up to the early hours editing feedback videos for clients, so they can address immediate issues, fix the learning solidly and gave a permanent reminder of exactly what the skill should be like – personalised for them.

Steve is now a great friend. I shared a flat with him in Gozo this summer and despite having 250 plus Sidemount dives done, I learned more still. As a technical divemaster I assisted Steve on a few courses, including the infamous Vazinator and Wong duo.

Steve’s professionalism shone through, his passion and love for Sidemount diving always to the fore. I now would not dream of diving OC other than using Steve’s Sidemount techniques, even though I now dive CCR, I still Sidemount my bailout!

He’ll be impossible to live with when he reads this…… so Steve…… your flat cleaning skills suck, your cooking is average and your navigation dodgy!

To see pictures of Matt during the famous Kevin & Vas course assists click either picture below to be taken to the album