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Mel Wu: NSWIS Diving Talent ID Day is a Chance to Challenge Yourself

vivodigital

Journalist

Olympic medallist Melissa Wu described the New South Wales Institute of Sport’s (NSWIS) Dive On In Talent ID Testing Day on Sunday, 4 June as possibly the first step of an ‘incredible adventure’.

The NSWIS Diving Program, headed by world renowned coach Chava Sobrino, is looking for the next generation of divers, and Wu hopes to see hordes of children aged between 8-12 attend the event at Sydney Olympic Park’s QuayCentre from 1-2pm.

It’s hoped the day will unearth NSWIS’s next generation of divers who could go on to compete at the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

“It’s a great opportunity for kids to try a new sport,” said Wu, who’s impressive haul includes a silver and bronze Olympic medal, as well as three Commonwealth Games gold medals.

“I’ve been involved in diving for a very long time, it was the first sport I fell in love with. Diving provides great opportunities for you to challenge yourself, learn new skills, while it’s also a great environment to be in.

“It has also helped me in other ways. When I started diving as a 10 year old, I was very shy . . . I’d hide behind my siblings. But diving allowed me to come out of my shell; helped shape who I am, while it has given me opportunities in life I would not have had.”

Sobrino, who represented Mexico before heading four Australian Olympic team campaigns as Head Coach, said children from the state’s multicultural communities would be welcome.

“Come and try, it will be great!” he said. “Having the Brisbane Games in 2032 is an opportunity for us – and the country – to shine, just as Melissa Wu has been shining for a long time, and gold medallist, Matthew Mitcham was a member of this program.”

Sam Fricker, who started diving as a 12 year old in Newcastle all because he liked one of the girls in the local squad, spoke highly of the life skills he’s gained through the sport.

“Diving gives me a place to work hard and to be diligent,” said Fricker, who represented Australia at the Tokyo Olympics.

“The sport has completely changed my life; it has taught me to set goals, work towards my dreams, develop so many values that allow you to achieve your goals in and out of the pool.

“I joined NSWIS thorough one of these trials, they’re crucial to finding the next generation of divers. The overall message is everyone is welcome to come and try. If you have a gymnastics background it is an advantage, but it isn’t necessary.

“It’s also a dryland event – which means you won’t be going into the water.”

Those attendees who are identified may be offered an opportunity to train in an NSWIS Talent Squad working with Wu, Fricker, and fellow Olympians Brittany O’Brien and Nikita Hains.

NSWIS’s Assistant Coach Joe Meszaros – who represented Great Britain – said the children would be in good hands.

“The Dive On In Talent ID Testing Day is an amazing opportunity,” he said. “The NSWIS Diving Program is renowned, not just in Australia, but around the world for the athletes it produces. It’s also a great opportunity for the children to meet some Olympians.”

To secure a spot for your child, complete the online registration form below. Confirmation of your registration and further details will be shared upon registration.

REGISTER

WHEN: Sunday 4^th June

WHERE: Quay Centre (Gymnastics Hall)

Olympic Boulevard

Sydney Olympic Park 2127

IMPORTANT – Athletes MUST enter the Quay Centre through reception

NSWIS Venue Waiver – Click the link below to complete the online waiver prior to testing day

NSWIS VENUE WAIVER

MEETING POINT– Café area (Legends Café inside the Quay Centre)

PARKING: Parking station P3 –

Sarah Durack Drive

Parking tickets can be validated at the reception of the Sports Centre