The Kiwi team supporting their teammates
SHENZHEN – It was hard to overhear the loud cheering and yelling of theNew Zealand team, sitting in the grand stands, at the Shenzhen Aquatic centre last night.
The team was supporting fellow team members in the Pool competing for a spot on the podium.
Melissa Ingram, captain of the New Zealand swim team said the team has been performing really well, but spirit is the most important thing.
“We all come in and support each other,” she said.
Jonathan Pullon, a new comer, watched as team mate Glen Synders made it onto the podium.
“It is really quite inspiring, I look up to the faster guys” he said, adding a moment later “It’s an even playing field, everyone is here for the same reason.”
Jonathan who is an open water swimmer, did not make it onto the podium in Shenzhen but thinks it is important to come and support his fellows in their competitions.
“It’s the experience of coming here that counts, not only the results”, he added.
He knows the pressures athletes face during their events well and finds that a cheering crowd is an enormous confidence booster.
Darryl Follows, leader of theNew Zealandswimming team said the team has been conducting themselves very well.
“It’s great team spirit, the old guys have shown the young guys what it is all about,” he added.
Sportsmen and women from other disciplines including basketball, table tennis and cycling even made it to the Pool last night.
“Many of these guys have never been to a professional meet like this… it’s also a great experience for them”, Mr Follows added.
New Zealand has made a strong effort in the Pool last night, sitting 10th overall on the medal tally.
(Source: Dominick Czakilew, FISU Young Reporter/Australia)
New Zealand is collecting medals in the pool
