Swimming NSW has announced its highly anticipated return to the international stage with the selection of its first international touring team in five years. The team, led by world-class coach Shannon Rollason, will compete at the Japan Open in November 2024. This marks a significant moment for NSW swimming, as the tour will provide crucial international exposure for NSW athletes and coaching staff, preparing them for future benchmark events.
The team includes a mix of emerging talent and experienced swimmers from various clubs across New South Wales. The full list of selected athletes is as follows:
MIGHTY BLUES SELECTED
- Marius Boll (CARL)
- Jessica Cole (WIAQ)
- Jaimie De Lutiis (WIAQ)
- Matthew Galea (SOSC)
- Lillie McPherson (MNLY)
- Thomas Robinson (CRUIZ)
- Stuart Swinburn (COSAC)
- Marcus Da Silva (CRAN)
- Sienna Toohey (ALBU)
- Abbey Webb (CRUIZ)
In addition to this talented lineup, the coaching staff, headed by Shannon Rollason, will include experienced coaches Adam Kable, Bec Wheatley, and Pat Stellino. Team management will be overseen by Swimming NSW Coaching Director Jon Shaw.
Beyond the competition, the touring team will also make a stop in Fukuoka, continuing to strengthen ties with Japanese counterparts following a partnership signed between Swimming NSW and Fukuoka in December 2023. This collaboration, aimed at fostering growth and development within the sport, has been an exciting opportunity for both countries to share knowledge and experience with a focus on participation, coaching and women in sport.
The Japan Open promises to be a valuable experience for these athletes, giving them the chance to compete against some strong international competition. For many of these athletes, this tour serves as a key stepping stone in their preparation for future major events such as the World Championships and Olympic Games.
Coach Shannon Rollason expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming tour:
"It’s an exciting time for Swimming NSW. After a five-year break from international touring, this is an important opportunity for our athletes and coaches to gain crucial international competition experience. The Japan Open will provide valuable lessons for our athletes as we prepare them for future benchmark events."
Swimming NSW CEO, Kirsten Thomson OLY congratulated the coaches and athletes on their selection:
“NSW has a proud history of success on the international stage and we look forward to watching these athletes and coaches build upon our rich history of success in the pool. For many of these athletes this will be their first international competition and we are proud to support them on this journey whilst providing a pathway for other NSW athletes to aspire to.”
