Marist Brothers High School swimmer Don Younger has made a remarkable splash at the 2025 Fiji Primary & Secondary Schools National Swimming Championship. On the opening day of the event held at Suva’s Damodar City Aquatic Centre, the 18-year-old national representative clinched three gold medals in the 50m breaststroke, 100m breaststroke, and the 200m individual medley (IM) events, showcasing his dominance in the pool.
Younger, who hails from Rotuma, detailed the intense training regimen he undertook in the lead-up to the championships, which included daily early morning and afternoon sessions during the school break. This dedication is part of his preparation for an upcoming international tournament in Australia, emphasizing the importance of relentless practice in achieving competitive excellence.
“I started swimming in class 5 and gradually progressed through club competitions. My first international experience was at the Mini Games in form 4, which was exciting,” Younger reflected on his journey. His primary objective for the championship was not only to win gold medals but also to break existing records and help Marist Brothers defend their championship title.
Younger’s achievements serve as an inspiration within the community, demonstrating the power of hard work and commitment. He acknowledged the significant role his family, especially his mother, played in supporting his swimming endeavors. Looking ahead, he is also preparing for the Pacific Mini Games later this year, indicating that his journey in competitive swimming is far from over.
The event echoes sentiments shared by fellow Marist Brothers teammates and other schools about the spirit of perseverance and community engagement in youth sports. As schools compete fiercely, the emphasis remains on personal development and the shared joy that comes from swimming.
As this year’s championships progress, the story of Don Younger, along with other talented swimmers, highlights the bright potential of Fiji’s youth in athletics and the importance of nurturing emerging talent within the country.
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