Teenager Kayden Gibson gearing up for the biggest swim meet of his young career

Kayden Gibson is reaping the rewards of his hard work, qualifying for two events at the Brisbane meet – an achievement that’s equally as exciting for the teen’s coach.

Gladstone South Swimming Club's Kayden Gibson with coach Adam Eiseman are heading to the Olympic swimming trials in Brisbane.

Gladstone swimmer Kayden Gibson and his coach Adam Eiseman will experience an incredible first in Brisbane this week.

Gibson, 15, will compete in two events at the national swimming trials, the sole selection meet for the Australian swim team for the Paris Olympics

Experienced mentor Eiseman is equally as excited, with Gibson being the first of his swimmers to compete at this level.

The strength of Central Queensland swimming is apparent, with Rocky City’s Taryn Roberts, Amelie Smith, Saphron Davis and Kyle Taylor also having qualified for the trials.

Rocky City's Taryn Roberts.

Eiseman said this was a great learning opportunity for Gibson to mix it with the country’s best.

“We haven’t put too much pressure on the event itself, it’s more about the experience,” he said.

The pair has worked together for seven years, and been with the Gladstone South Swimming Club since its inception.

Eiseman said his young charge was reaping the rewards for his incredible efforts, which have made him a multiple state champion and national champion the last two years running in the 14 and 15 years age groups.

Coach Adam Eiseman with a young Kayden Gibson when the Gladstone South Swimming Club was first formed.

“Every year, he’s been improving step by step, and he’s taken the next step again now to go on to bigger and better things,” Eiseman said.

“He’s hardworking, determined and focused.

“He’s got goals and he does everything possible to achieve those goals in the pool and away from it.

“You certainly can’t fault his commitment and work ethic.”

Gibson will race in his pet event, the 200m butterfly, at lunchtime on Wednesday before lining up in the 100m butterfly on Saturday.

Gladstone South swimmer Kayden Gibson will race in the 100m and 200m butterfly events at the Olympic swimming trials in Brisbane.

Eiseman was confident that his teenage talent would not be overawed by the occasion and would be looking to make the most of it.

“He’s used to a bit of pressure. There’s going to be some nerves, that’s normal, but it just comes down to using those nerves the right way, utilising them to benefit rather than overwhelm him,” he said.

“Kayden’s a great role model for the club so hopefully he’s inspired some of those young ones, and not just in our club but the region, to believe that anything’s possible.”

Originally published as Teenager Kayden Gibson gearing up for the biggest swim meet of his young career