Trinitarian named NSW swim captain
“Outstanding” leadership qualities were behind Gabriel’s (12Ar) appointment as NSW captain for the School Sport Australia Swimming Championships in Brisbane next month.
He will head a group of 130 swimmers, including four Trinitarians, selected from the NSW All Schools titles in June, where the School’s 14 competitors won 22 medals in all, including four gold.
Gabriel, who won three individual golds, will compete in the 200m, 400m and 800m freestyle in the 18 years age group.
The School’s three other state representatives are:
-Toby J (9Ta) 50m and 100m breaststroke, and relay events (14 years)
-Joshua J (8He) 50m, 100m, and 200m butterfly, plus 50m, 100m, and 200m freestyle, plus relay events (14 years)
-Sterling T (8WH) 50m and 100m freestyle, plus medley relay (13 years).
Director of Swimming Ben Tuxford said Gabriel was a very coachable athlete who was always happy to do “just that little bit more”.
“We have many swim meets which take up the majority of our weekends, and Gabriel can often be found catching up on school work in between races. This sets a wonderful tone for our younger students to witness,” he said.
“I have seen Gabriel finish a race, get straight out of the pool and log on to undertake a French tutoring lesson with his tutor, who is located in France.”
Gabriel had a later start to racing than most, and success didn’t come easily. But he found inspiration in the success of others.
“He is a very personable young man who is ever willing to chat and provide guidance to his team mates across all age groups,” said Mr Tuxford.
“He is a very hard worker who is always striving to do things better. His can-do attitude becomes infectious, and makes everyone else around him think similarly. This then progresses the whole group together.
“His freestyle stroke is beautiful, from his head position to his catch and pull – just about textbook.
“His wonderful results in the pool have led to a number of universities and colleges from both Australia and the US making contact.”
Gabriel was identified by NSW team management for his “outstanding leadership qualities”.
“Not only will he be mentoring the team but assisting with relay selection and building a team ethos. He will serve as a role model for other swimmers,” said NSW team spokesman Les Trist in a letter to Head Master Tim Bowden.
“This is a very prestigious role and many of our past team leaders have gone on to be Olympic and Commonwealth Games team members.”
