Young swimmer breaks 12 records

The Logan Vikings Swimming Club at Logan North Aquatic Centre has been quietly training champions, with one 14-year-old swimmer recently breaking 12 records at state championships.

Meet Andrew Callum, the club’s breakout star, who has made waves in the new S19 multi-class category designated for those with physical or intellectual disabilities.

His discipline and dedication have allowed him to overcome challenges inherent in the world of competitive swimming – and those associated with being on the autism spectrum.

Club president Michael O’Brien says it’s a huge achievement and an exciting time for everyone in the club.

‘Since being classified as a multi-class athlete, Andrew’s confidence has gone through the roof,’ he says.

‘He’s one of 6 swimmers going to nationals and we’re only a very small club, so to have someone like Andrew represent us is outstanding.

‘He’s a very good swimmer and had only just missed out on qualifying as an athlete without a disability.’

The new points-based multi class system categorises swimmers based on their level of disability, levelling the playing field for fair competition.

Andrew is already looking forward to beating his personal best at the Australian Age Championships in April with the support of the club and its coaches.

‘Wherever Andrew wants to go, we’re there to support his journey,’ Michael says.

‘The club exists to support young athletes like him.’

For the Vikings, swimming is a lifestyle where even the youngest swimmers have the discipline and will to wake up before sunrise to train.

The club has also been a recipient of Logan City Council’s Community Benefit Fund.

‘That grant supported our Logan swimmers with coaching and mentoring, so we were able to send kids off to nationals,’ Michael says.

‘We’re Logan locals and proudly so. We have swimmers from 7 divisions and our kids work hard to represent the city.’

For Michael, who’s been involved with the club for 6 years, the most rewarding aspect is seeing swimmers improve and building connections in and out of the pool.

‘What unites everyone is simply a love for swimming,’ he says.

‘Everyone has a shared goal – how they swim, train and how to be better than what they were before. You’ll often see the older swimmers helping out the younger ones.’

His next goal is to build a clubroom at Logan North Aquatic Centre.

‘We’ve recently applied for a grant so we can finally give our members a place to call home,’ he says.

For more information, check out the Logan Vikings Swimming Club website or get the latest updates on Facebook.