Sutherland Shire Council is proud to announce that both an Athlete and Coach from our Sutherland Leisure Centre have been selected for the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
Local swimmer Mitch Kilduff has been selected to compete in the 200m freestyle swim, in the ‘Elite Athlete with Disability S14’ category, while Head Swim Coach at Sutherland, Gavin Stewart, has been appointed as an Australian Team Coach.
Kilduff has trained at Sutherland Leisure Centre since 2010, making his first Australian Team in 2011 at the age of 15, before going on to represent Australia at a number of levels, achieving some outstanding results (see below).
"I’m relieved that I have made the team," said Kilduff.
"It would be great to get a good result at the games.
"I’m also so pleased that I’m training with Gav because I know I’m in good hands and I feel happy and safe."
Kilduff has been supported and coached by Stewart, who commenced coaching at Sutherland in 1995, progressing to Head Coach in 2009.
The star coach has a long list of awards and extensive Sutherland Leisure Centres high performance athlete achievements (see below), and is signed on to continue training Kilduff through the 2018 Commonwealth Games tournament.
"Mitch has come a long way from where we started back in 2009. He has matured greatly and is ready to take the next step in his swimming career," said Stewart.
"Mitch has prepared really well for these Commonwealth Games, much better than previous preparations. I see no reason why he won’t perform well, which would be an amazing result for himself, and his supportive family."
"Personally, being part of the team is one of the greatest achievements in my professional career, and I am thankful for the opportunity."
Sutherland Shire Mayor, Carmelo Pesce congratulated the two and says the squad programs run through the Sutherland Shire’s leisure centres, particularly Sutherland, are second to none.
"Sutherland Leisure Centre runs a multi-level squad program that has been developed over many years to provide people of all abilities the opportunity to enjoy the sport of swimming," he said.
"These programs provide a pathway for athletes and more serious swimmers who want to compete at national and international levels while also providing the best coaching in the country.
"I’m extremely proud of both Mitch and Gavin and wish them all the best on the Gold Coast in April."
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