A WEE COUNTY swimming coach has spoken of his relief after seeing his athletes pick up 10 medals at the Commonwealth Games.

Steven Tigg, from Sauchie, is the head performance swimming coach at the University of Stirling and was in the Gold Coast this month to watch his students make history.

Among his success stories were fellow Wee County star Duncan Scott, Ross Murdoch, Aimee Willmott and Marc Austin.

Between them the group claimed 10 podium spots, with Alloa star Scott grabbing six to become Scotland's greatest ever Commonwealth athlete.

But after witnessing such impressive displays Steven admitted he was just happy to see the swimmers claim what they deserved.

He told the Advertiser: "In all honesty, the main feeling is a massive sense of relief.

"We know how hard everyone works, athletes and staff, in ensuring the correct processes are in place to help them achieve their own personal goals.

"The build up to each race can be a mixture of emotions, but afterwards, good or bad we are always proud of our efforts.

"To win ten medals, two of which individual gold, was incredible. However, we set ourselves high standards and probably had our eyes on a couple more.

He added: "The standard of swimming in the Commonwealth is very high, we were on the right side of some close finishes and the wrong side of others. It has given us plenty to work with through to summer."

Although Duncan, who paraded his medals at Alloa's Recreation Park on Sunday, may have hit massive new heights, Steven believes there is more to come from him and everyone else as Scotland's stock grows on the athletic stage.

He continued: "Their journeys will continue, we have European Championships in Glasgow for some in August which we are really looking forward to as well as longer term, looking towards Tokyo 2020.

"The short and long-term future is very bright and exciting. Duncan, if he continues to apply himself the way he always has and keeps enjoying the sport, I am sure will go in to greater successes as can a number of other athletes in the program."

As with all huge sporting events, there is the small matter of what legacy will be left behind. Steven believes there is a positive one to follow from the Team Scotland camp's performance.

He said: "We keep improving as a nation; medal tables don't lie, and I don't see that stopping with the NGB's, clubs and support networks of SportScotland and the Scottish Institute of Sport.

"If there are a few more younger athletes out there inspired to go on their own journey and see where it leads it can only be a good thing for our society."

Steven also notes that Duncan's success might help breed a new generation of starts in the pool.

The coach said: "I remember Duncan being seven-years-old old at Alloa Swimming Club and I always encouraged him to look up to other athletes Scottish or otherwise. The rewards in the sport are huge, whether competitive or not."