Role: Canoe Slalom National Team Next Gen Coach
Hometown: Drzewica, Poland
Residence: Gatineau, QC
First year coaching the Canadian National Team: 2001
Clubs: Ottawa River Runners
Michal Staniszewski was born in Drzewica, Poland and was a member of the Polish slalom team for fifteen years. Michal reached the podium in C2 at various international events including 3 medals at European Championships and multiple medals at World Cups between 1992-2000. He was Junior World Champion in 1990, World Champion in 1995, and capped off his career by winning a silver medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games in C2.
Michal holds a diploma in Coaching / Instruction from the University School of Physical Education in Cracow, Poland and received his level 4 coach certification through the National Coaching Institute in Toronto.
Canoe Kayak Canada and the Ottawa River Runners brought Michal to Canada in 2001 where he made a quick transition into coaching. He managed the National Development Program while also working as Head Coach for the Ottawa River Runners (2001-2007). He became the National Slalom Head Coach after the 2004 Athens Olympic Games and is now head of Canada’s Next Gen slalom program. Michal has been an invaluable part of Canada’s success and has had athletes reach the podium at multiple Pan Am Games and Pan Am Championships, along with many top 10 finishes at World Cups and World Championships.
Personal International Results:
2000 Olympic Games (Sydney, Australia) C2 – Silver
2000 European Championships (Mezzana, Italy) C2 – Bronze
1999 World Championships (La Seu d’Urgell, Spain) C2 – Silver
1996 European Championships (Augsburg, Germany) C2 team – Silver
1996 European Championships (Augsburg, Germany) C2 – Bronze
1995 World Championships (Nottingham, England) C2 – Gold
1990 Junior World Championships (Tavanasa, Switzerland) C2 – Gold
