At the NSWCHS Swimming Championships recently we spotted two members of the Education Department who have returned to what was their field of play not too many years past.

It is very pleasing to see young swimmers, who competed for their schools and regions, complete their teacher training and so early in their careers become involved in extra-curricula activities and be available to work for and officiate at the NSWCHS Swimming Championships.

Charnelle Crossingham (Warners Bay HS) – 2000, 2001 was the 400m Individual Medley Champion.  Charnelle now teaches at Coonabarabran HS.

Matthew Simpson (Rathmines PS) broke the 10yrs Breaststroke record at the PSSA Swimming Championships and held this record for ten years.  Matthew also held 14yrs old records at the NSWCHS Championships when representing Toronto HS.  Matthew Simpson is currently teaching at Morriset HS.

A young Hunter boy also stood out at the carnival with exceptional results.

Ryan Leonard (Toronto HS) blitzed his age group.  Ryan broke five records in the twelve years age group.

100m Freestyle           1.00.94
200m Freestyle           2.10.24
100m Backstroke         1.07.99
100m Breaststroke      1.17.73
100m Butterfly            1.05.49

Ryan also won the 50m Freestyle in his age group and came second in the 400m Individual Medley and third in the 200m Individual Medley competing against boys up to two years older.

Ryan Leonard at 12 yrs of age was awarded swimmer of the meet. This is a remarkable achievement.