Elite swimmers across the Hunter can now train locally following the opening of the NUsport Performance Hub, a world-class facility created in partnership with the NSW Institute of Sport (NSWIS) and the University of Newcastle.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin said the new partnership would create many opportunities for the next generation of athletes in the region.

“The NUsport Performance Hub is a fantastic opportunity to provide a pathway for local, talented athletes to reach the highest levels in their sport while training in their own backyard,” Mr Martin said.

“The performance hub will operate from the University’s recently refurbished swimming pool at NUsport, Callaghan, and athletes will be coached by internationally recognised swimmer, Sander Ganzevles.”

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said NSW is the greatest contributor to Australia’s success in the pool and the Hub will support athletes to achieve podium performances.

“This partnership cements our collective regional strategy to provide better access to world class facilities and training environments for our future Olympians,” Mr Henskens said.

NSWIS CEO Kevin Thompson said the provision of performance staff was essential to the success of the Hub.

“NSWIS is proud to co-fund with Swimming NSW the employment of a high-performance coach to lead the NUsport Performance Hub program and support the growth of development of local coaches,” Mr Thompson said.

University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky AO said the University was proud to launch the new Performance Hub in partnership with NSWIS and Swimming NSW.

“Our University is committed to supporting people to achieve their best and we recently upgraded our pool to provide the region with state-of-the art facilities that have enabled us to host this program,” Professor Zelinsky said.

“Offering this training program will help more swimmers and students reach their greatest potential both in and out of the pool.”

NSWIS