Oliver Linde
Australia's history in the world of swimming is littered with young superstars. People such as Ian Thorpe, Emma McKeon, Dawn Fraser, & Grant Hackett to name a few. This year a youngster from the Southern Highlands announced himself as a prospect for the future.
At only 15 years old Olive Linde has already qualified for the Australian Open Swimming Championships. Something that he told Pario even came as a shock to him. Especially since he only began pursuing swimming competitively in December 2021.
"When I was swimming the race my goal wasn't necessarily to qualify. I was just doing it for the experience," recalled Oliver. "So when I saw that I got the qualifying time I was shocked but stoked."
Although Oliver only started swimming competitively last year he has been in a pool for the majority of his life. Before meeting his swim coach Cameron Reynolds from CR Swim Oliver was simply swimming as part of local swim squads as a way to stay fit. After a single meeting with Cameron though Oliver's eyes were opened to a whole new world of swimming.
"Cam made me realise that there was something more outside of just the swimming squads. There was this whole world of competition," Oliver said. "I remember the first time I met Cam he gave me a few little tips & my swimming instantly felt better. So my connection with Cam was instant. From then on our relationship has slowly grown as I've grown alongside the CR Swim team."
The Importance Of A Great Coach
While Oliver was obviously naturally talented he told Pario "Without my training & coaching I wouldn't be anywhere near where I am now." A statement that in itself highlights just how important a great coach can be for any athlete.
According to Oliver, it's not just technical improvements that Cameron has implemented. Oliver explained to Pario that the personal connection & motivation that Cameron provides has been crucial.
"Cam is my number 1 inspiration. Him telling me the stories of the things that he has done through swimming is really motivating. Particularly because he did that when he was my age. He is always helping me get back in the pool, helping me stay motivated & helping me find new goals to strive for."
Achievements & Future Goals
In a relatively short competitive swimming career, Oliver has already achieved great things of his own. Oliver has qualified for the Australian Open Championships. He's also won medals at the State & Country NSW Championships.
Looking to the future Oliver has his eyes on the ultimate achievement, "Making an Australian team, whether that be a junior or senior team for the Commonwealth or Olympic Games, would be my end goal with swimming."
Keep up with Oliver on social media at: @Oliver.Linde
Keep up with CR Swim on social media at: @CR_Swim
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