AquaMobile Athlete Spotlight: Competitive Swimmer
This issue of AquaMobile’s Athlete Spotlight is all about Melvyn Wong. He is an accomplished competitive swimmer and coach. He has won multiple Provincial and National medals and even won a silver med…
AquaMobile Athlete Spotlight: Competitive Swimmer – Melvyn Wong
This issue of AquaMobile’s Athlete Spotlight is all about Melvyn Wong. He is an accomplished competitive swimmer and coach. He has won multiple Provincial and National medals and even won a silver medal at a Lifeguard Pool National meet in 2014! Read on to learn more about his journey!
Name: Melvyn Wong
Age: 25
Sport: Swimming
School: York University
Highlights:
Coach at Mississauga Masters Swim Club Silver medallist at the Lifeguard Pool National Meet
What Attracted You To Swimming As a Sport?
I originally got into swimming because my parents didn’t want to worry about me being alone in the water. They understood that water safety is important. I chose swimming because training with your team lets you develop bonds with everyone like a big family.
We train as a team, but most events are individual. I race against a clock and it helps me improve and get stronger and better every day. I also love that swimming allows me to meet so many people and travel around the world doing something that I enjoy.
Coaching Experience
What Are Some Of The Challenges to Coaching?
Coaching adults and children has its challenges. It is easier to communicate with adults who are willing to learn and pay attention to yourself. Some have also built up bad habits growing up and is harder to change their technique.
Children might not want to swim and it can be harder to get their attention, but it’s easier to fix their technique. Coaching and swimming competitively have the same impact on me. It’s a love-hate relationship and sometimes you have to enjoy both the challenges and accomplishments.
Personal Lessons You've Learned From Being a Competitive Swimmer
Brotherly Bond
Swimming has made the relationship between my brother and me stronger than ever. Even though he is 9 years younger, most of the time we don't even need to speak to communicate. We understand each other with just a look. Having a brother who is a competitive swimmer has been one of the greatest things that have happened in life. I’m happy I could positively influence him through coaching and teaching him about how swimming is a great way to stay active and gain confidence. Our bond stems from our love of swimming and competition and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
