Meet Alyssa
Alyssa is a young multi-class swimmer who is currently training in the Para-development squad towards the 2024 Paris Paralympics. We caught up with Alyssa and spoke to her about her swim journey so far and her advice for someone who wants to start swimming.
Why do you swim?
I swim because I absolutely love it. Swimming is much more than just getting in the water and doing laps. It’s about pushing your limits, making friends and creating a supportive community. Swimming has also given me the opportunity to compete in which I have had incredible experience doing so.
When did you start swimming?
I started swimming for physiotherapy when I was 6 months old and haven’t stopped since. I started taking swimming more seriously in the past 2 years in which I’ve made the NSW Paralympic Development Squad along with many national events.
My swimsuit helps me feel...
Confident in and out of the water. I love having the opportunity to swim and having the right swimmers can make all the difference. They allow me to feel comfortable and confident in my body (while rocking some pretty awesome colours and patterns) whether it’s training or just getting in for a quick dip.
Your top tip for new swimmers
My advice for someone who might feel nervous to start swimming is find a motivation; a reason to swim for, a reason to wake up in the morning and to get in the pool when your mind is telling you not today.
Overcoming your fears and finding confidence in the water is a journey. It won’t happen overnight but with the right motivation and the confidence to start anything is possible.
Follow along with Alyssas swimming journey on Instagram @aj_gillespie14
