In a report published in Brazilian publication Folha de S. Paulo on Wednesday, Junior World Record holder Matheus Santana says that he’s been informed that the CBDA (Brazilian Swimming Federation) and the Brazilian Olympic Committee will pay for all of his expenses related to his diabetes.
The 18-year old Santana was held out of the 2013 FINA World Junior Championships due to complications that came about because of his diabetes. Last weekend the young Brazilian swam a 48.61, breaking the World Junior Record in the 100 freestyle, a record that was set by American Caeleb Dressel who swum a 48.97 to win the event at last year’s World Junior Championships.
With an eye on his long term health and potential the CBDA will have doctors collaborate to come up with a structured monitoring protocol for Santana. This protocol will take into account his training demands along with the precautions that are needed to control his blood sugar levels.
They will also pick up the bills for his insulin and blood glucose monitoring system. According to Santana the insulin alone costs between £300-400 ($500-$700 USD).
“From what I hear, they will offer me everything I need on the part of medical health. This issue of treatment requires money, and a lot, “said Matheus.
This is great news for the young Brazilian who has a promising career to look forward to.
Coach Pussieldi posted his evolution. Before 15.. nothing out of the charts..
100 free evolution
9 – 1:15:30
10 – 1:11:18
11 – 1:04:38
12 – 1:01:93
13 – 57:92
14 – 55:02
15 – 51:80
16 – 50:25
17 – 49:21
18 – 48:61
I Think we might see a 48 flat this year already..
How will this affect his eligibility status with NCAA, if he ever tries to swim at NCAA division 1 level?
LA – that’s an interesting question, and one that will probably require a whole lot of haggling between Aub…I mean whoever he would try to swim for and the NCAA.
My guess is that it doesn’t. He’s portraying it as some sort of special benefit, but the reality is that all USA Swimming National Teamers have health insurance as well.
Brazil taking the initiative to ensure their potential big guns are healthy and ready for Rio in 2016. Good stuff.
Now if only they were so proactive about actually preparing the actual games…