12-year-old Lachlan Nguyen chosen to represent Australia in 2017 Pacific School Games
After only two years in the sport, Lachlan Nguyen has qualified to represent Australia at the 2017 Pacific School Games.
Local Sports Stars
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A radio announcement from Alan Jones first led Lachlan Nguyen to the springboard.
Two years ago, a diving talent day was broadcast on 2GB, and Lachlan, then 10, went to give the sport a try.
He was welcomed into the NSW Institute of Sport diving program and now at 12, Lachlan has qualified to represent Australia at the 2017 Pacific School Games.
“Never did I think that I would have the opportunity to compete for my country,” the Panania diver said.
“It’s an honour and I hope to perform to the best of my ability.”
Two weeks ago, Lachlan was also awarded a Commonwealth Games NSW athletes grant.
Commonwealth Games NSW chief executive Peter Tate said it was Lachlan’s “rapid diving development” that caught the organisation’s eye.
“Commonwealth Games NSW is delighted to assist Lachlan in his steep rise to podium success,” Mr Tate said.
“We have absolutely no doubt he will proudly wear the green and gold at prestigious Commonwealth Games level in the not-too-distant future.”
The young diver trains six days a week, mornings and afternoons, across dry land, strength and conditioning, and water sessions.
When jumping off the board, he said he was only focused on the dive.
“In that moment my thoughts empty and everything else becomes a hum in the background,” he said.
“I’m focusing on the jump and the water below.”
His coach Thomas Rickards said Lachlan was an “energetic young diver and tough competitor”.
“He has high expectations of himself and if he can continue to train he will have great success,” he said.
Lachlan’s determination and hard work makes him this week’s Local Sports Star nominee for Junior Sports Star Individual. LSS has five categories: Junior Sports Star Individual, Junior Sports Stars Team, Young Sporting Spirit Individual, Young Sporting Spirit Team and Service to Sport.
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