Hello and a warm welcome to all of our members across WA. We hope you had a wonderful Christmas and New Year, and have taken some well-deserved rest over the break.
The last month has seen a number of exciting events take place on the Swimming WA Calendar. The Hancock Prospecting WA Age and Open Long Course Championships was held at HBF Stadium on December 18-22, and was a huge success. There were brilliant displays of swimming both individually and in the relay events, whereby numerous records were broken. Thank you to all of our Technical Officials and Coaches who made this event possible, your hard work and dedication to swimming is greatly appreciated.
The Open Water Series has continued to go from strength to strength this summer, with Mullaloo attracting a whopping 715 competitors on the 27th of December. With the Cottesloe and Sorrento rounds fast approaching over the coming weeks, January poses a huge month for Swimmers, and we encourage all to participate.
We have had the great pleasure of opening the 2021 year with the SunSmart Country Championships. This is always an uplifting and positive meet that brings together the regions up and coming talents to showcase their hard work. During the competition the Country Team and ALT Rising Stars were acknowledged and celebrated.
I would like to take the time to acknowledge the Swimming WA values. Swimming is recognised across Western Australia as a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all abilities, ages and genders; one that supports physical and mental well-being; and as a sport that builds strong communities through its clubs and events.
Swimming has a rich history, featuring in all Olympic and Commonwealth Games. West Australian competitors have significantly contributed to the success of the Australian Swimming team for over 100 years.
Swimming WA is proud of its history and optimistic about the opportunities we can provide current and future participants in the sport. The concept of the ‘Spirit of Swimming’ was derived from the values the Board wish to be held accountable to, and wish for all involved in the sport to uphold and honour.
S.P.I.R.I.T
- S – Safety; to practice and promote the safety and well-being of all participants in the sport.
- P – Passion; to have fun whilst encouraging everyone to be the best they can be.
- I – Integrity; to act ethically, honestly and with transparency.
- R – Respect; to demonstrate a sense of fair play and value the contribution of everyone in the swimming community.
- I – Inclusion; we are proud and inclusive to all those who are interested and involved in the sport.
- T – Teamwork; to collaborate with purpose, and to keep each other accountable.
Finally, from the Swimming WA Board and Staff, we wish you all the best over the coming year and I look forward to seeing everyone throughout 2021.
Kirsty Read
Acting CEO
