courtesy of Rackley Swim Team
Brisbane, QLD – Rackley Swimming is thrilled to welcome Paralympian Lewis Bishop to the Rackley Swim Team Athlete Support Program. As he prepares to compete in the Paris Paralympic Games this month, Bishop joins a program that extends beyond traditional swimming training. This initiative is dedicated to supporting, developing, and empowering swimming talent across Southeast Queensland, with a focus on fostering success both in and out of the pool.
As part of Rackley’s ongoing commitment to nurturing talent and providing elite athletes with the resources they need to excel, we are proud to support Lewis on his journey to success. “We are honoured to welcome Lewis to our program,” said Anastasia Ellerby, Directory of Sporting Pathways and Rackley Swim Team Club President. “He embodies the values of perseverance and dedication.“
Since its establishment in 2021, the Rackley Athlete Program is designed to provide a comprehensive support system, including financial assistance, personal development mentoring, and meaningful work projects. These projects are designed to complement their training, equip athletes with a diverse set of skills and prepare them for success beyond the black line.
Damien Jones, Head Coach behind the Program, shared his thoughts. “Our Athlete Support Program is developing the whole athlete— preparing them for the challenges they’ll face both in their sporting careers and in life beyond competition. We’ve built a support network that not only focuses on peak performance but also ensures a sustainable pathway for life after sport. We’re excited to welcome Lewis to our program and look forward to supporting them every step of the way.”
Lewis expressed his enthusiasm for joining the initiative, stating, “This is more than just coaching and a training plan; it’s about building a strong foundation for success both in and out of the pool.” After a traumatic injury at age nine led to the amputation of his leg, Lewis has overcome immense challenges to become a rising star, specialising in Butterfly in the S9 classification. His relentless determination to reach new heights, along with his dedication to inspiring others, makes him a perfect fit for Rackley’s program.
Lewis joins a roster of elite athletes already benefiting from the program, including Australian Dolphin, Commonwealth Games and World Championship swimmer Sam Short (OLY), Australia Dolphin swimmer Tommy Neill (OLY), Commonwealth Games swimmer Bronte Job and rising star Lily Price.
Paris ‘24 Olympic Bronze Medallist Tommy Neill (OLY) said of the program. “The athlete support program has helped me greatly across all aspects of life,” said Neill, one of the inaugural athletes in the program. “As swimmers, we must be very professional with minimal time for focusing on life outside the pool. This program helps us gain experience in the workplace while providing financial support to support us in our swimming. I am forever grateful to the Rackley family for their ongoing support and backing in everything I do.”
Emerging Butterfly talent Lily Price agreed, “The Rackley Support Program has really helped me to take my swimming to the next level. Their support means I can focus on training and competing without having to worry so much about fitting part-time or full-time work into my schedule, which is so important for recovery.”
Training out of the Rackley Hibiscus Pool Lewis will be involved in various community outreach programs, workshops, and training sessions, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of aspiring athletes.
Over the next three weeks, all eyes will be on Lewis as he prepares to compete on the world stage at the Paris Paralympic Games. The Rackley Swim Team and the entire Australian swimming community are behind him, cheering him on as he strives for greatness in the pool.
About Rackley Swim Team: Rackley Swim Team is Australia’s largest swimming club, boasting over 500 swimmers from ages 8 to 30. Their success is not just their own, but a result of the robust pathway program with Rackley Swimming, evident in their 60% first-time member rate. Rackley Swim Team ‘s dedicated to fostering a thriving community-based grassroots club that produces swimming champions while also providing a vital space for recreation and connection within the community. The program is supported by its Rackley Swimming, Base Compression Apparel and luxury fashion brand Silk Laundry.