Welcome to April!
As we dive into a new month, we’re thrilled to welcome the South Australian swimming community to April - one of the most exciting months in our sporting calendar!
We’ve already hit the ground swimming, with an action-packed start featuring our talented primary school students who competed in the School Sport SA (SAPSASA) Championships this past Friday and Monday. Their enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and passion for swimming continue to inspire us all and set the tone for what’s shaping up to be a massive fortnight ahead!
Congratulations to Rose Kishinets (Marion) and Max Milton (Marion) who both broke records at SAPSASA last Friday, with Rose breaking the SAAR & SAR for 11&U 50m Backstroke, and Max breaking the SAAR for 11&U 50m Butterfly!
Another congratulations goes to Kyle Chalmers (Marion), who blasted a 21.78 in the 50m Freestyle at the Bergan Swim Festival over the weekend, in Norway - a new South Australian Record!
🏊 Australian Age & MC, and Open Championships
Next up, our attention turns to Brisbane, where South Australia will be proudly represented at the 2025 Australian Age and MC Championships, running from 10–18 April. An incredible 107 athletes, supported by 4 technical officials and 66 coaches and team managers from 14 clubs, are gearing up to compete at the national level. We wish each and every one of you the very best of luck - go SA!
Following closely, the Australian Open Championships will take place from 21–24 April, also in Brisbane. This event will feature 25 elite SA athletes, 4 technical officials, and 14 support staff from 8 clubs, ready to take on the nation’s best. We can’t wait to watch the action unfold and cheer on our swimmers from back home.
🤝 World Autism Inclusion Month
April is also World Autism Inclusion Month, and we are proud to shine a light on the amazing work of Autism Swim, the global leaders in inclusive aquatics. Their mission is to ensure that all individuals - particularly those who are neurodivergent or have specific learning needs - have access to safe, supportive, and meaningful experiences in and around water. Autism Swim is a registered Australian charity, and donations over $2.00 are tax-deductible. Let’s celebrate inclusion, raise awareness, and support programs that ensure swimming is truly for everyone.
At SwimmingSA, we’re equally proud of our 'abilities' program, delivered in partnership with Novita. This initiative opens the door for swimmers with disabilities to engage in the competitive swimming community, accessing both the therapeutic and physical benefits of the sport. While not a learn-to-swim program, it is perfect for those with basic swimming skills who are eager to participate in a welcoming, encouraging environment. Our upcoming come 'n' try events, hosted by four dedicated clubs and supported by highly accredited coaches, are a fantastic opportunity for new swimmers to take the plunge and discover their potential.
So here’s to April - full of racing, representation, and recognition of the incredible diversity within our swimming family. Best of luck to all our athletes, officials, coaches, and clubs. Let’s make it a month to remember, both in the pool and beyond!
Swim fast, swim proud, and swim together! 🔥
