Selwyn Artistic Swimming, a powerhouse in the making, has been turning heads since its establishment in 2022. Under the guidance of head coach Chantelle Murray, the club has seen remarkable growth and success. Sam Coughlan brings us the latest updates.
Founded just three years ago, Selwyn Artistic Swimming started with a humble group of five athletes who followed Coach Murray from her previous club in Canterbury. Fast forward to the present day, and the club now boasts over 40 swimmers who recently clinched five gold medals at the South Island Championships held at the prestigious Selwyn Aquatic Centre.
Murray reflects on the club’s journey, stating, “It took a lot of hard work to get to where we are today. In the first year, we only saw marginal growth, but by the second year, we had expanded to around 30 members, which was a significant milestone.”
Having relocated to Rolleston in 2022, Coach Murray saw an opportunity to establish her own club in the region. With over a decade of coaching experience and a strong background in artistic swimming, she was well-equipped to lead Selwyn to success.
One of the standout performers at Selwyn is 15-year-old Kristina Stepchenko, who joined the club last year and quickly became a top contender. With a remarkable track record in competitive swimming, Kristina’s dedication and talent have propelled her to the forefront of the club’s success.
Despite the rigorous training schedule, Kristina remains focused on balancing her academic commitments with her athletic pursuits. She emphasizes the importance of time management and personal growth through her involvement in swimming.
While Selwyn Artistic Swimming takes pride in nurturing top athletes like Kristina, Coach Murray is equally passionate about expanding the club’s reach and attracting new talent. Through community outreach programs and school sessions, the club aims to introduce more young athletes to the sport and foster a love for artistic swimming.
One such success story is 12-year-old Matthew Hamilton-Cross, who discovered his passion for artistic swimming during a visit to the club with his schoolmates. His dedication and hard work have already paid off with a gold medal win at the South Island Championships.
As Selwyn Artistic Swimming gears up for the upcoming national championships in Wellington, the team is poised for success. With a strong lineup of 17 athletes, including Kristina and Matthew, Coach Murray is optimistic about their chances at the prestigious event.
With a focus on excellence, dedication, and growth, Selwyn Artistic Swimming is set to make a splash on the national stage and solidify its position as a rising star in New Zealand’s artistic swimming scene.
