Swimming NSW, Newcastle University Sport and Regional Academies of Sport join forces to develop local athletic talent

Swimming New South Wales, Newcastle University Sport (NUsport) and Regional Academies of Sport Ltd have today come together to launch a partnership aimed at supporting local sporting talent.

The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the three bodies solidifies a collaboration to provide performance support services to athletes within the NUsport Swimming NSW Performance Centre, as well as aspiring swimmers within the Hunter and Central Coast regions that participate in the Regional Academies swimming program.

Under the terms of the agreement, Regional Academies of Sport Ltd (RAS Ltd) will provide performance support services, including strength and conditioning, nutrition education, and sport psychology sessions, to identified athletes within the NUsport Swimming NSW Performance Centre. Additionally, Sander Ganzevles, the Head Coach of the Performance Centre will extend guidance and coaching support to the swimming squads of the Hunter and Central Coast Academies of Sport for up to three training sessions annually.

Commenting on the potential of the link, RAS Ltd Group Chief Executive, Brett O'Farrell advised “this partnership marks a significant step forward in our collective efforts to nurture swimming talent in the Newcastle area.

"By combining resources and expertise, we aim to identify and develop high performance athletes while providing them with the necessary support to excel in their athletic endeavours."

"This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to fostering excellence in swimming.”

Swimming NSW Chief Executive, Kirsten Thomson stated "together, we will work diligently to empower athletes, enhance their training experiences, and maximise their potential for success."

NUsport's provision of access to gymnasium facilities for strength and conditioning sessions is also key to the partnership’s success.

NUsport Chief Executive, Deborah Wright noted “we are thrilled to embark on the next phase of our collaboration in support of nurturing talent within the region.

"By leveraging our combined resources, expertise and networks we can create critical performance pathways by delivering additional opportunities and services to talented identified athletes."

The partnership between SNSW, NUsport and RAS Ltd represents a milestone in the ongoing development of swimming talent in NSW with the three entities aiming to make a significant impact on the sport and its athletes.

Images: Top, from left: Brett O'Farrell, Deborah Wright and Kirsten Thomson at today's agreement of the MOU between Swimming NSW, NUsport and Regional Academies of Sport Ltd and elite NUSport swimmers, below, from left: Callum Thomas, Coach Sander Gonzalex and Kelsey Van Eldik