Rising Star
Rising Star
September 06, 2006
Section: Sport
TE Haumi Maxwell is the Illawarras answer to Ian Thorpe. The talented 12 year old is currently swimming faster than Ian Thorpe was at the same age.
Well on his way to emulating the success of his idol Te Haumi was recently awarded a trophy for being the most outstanding swimmer of any age in NSW. Ian Thorpe was awarded the same trophy in 1994, the year Te Haumi was born.
It means another step in my swimming career, it is something I was aiming for, Te Haumi said.
He said the fact Ian Thorpes name appears on the trophy makes it extra special.
Its a real honour.
Te Haumi was discovered at a school swimming carnival by Shane Dowell and has been in the pool ever since. He now trains in Sutherland.
He has been chosen to join the national squad and will be the youngest on the team.
Coming up for this talented youngster is an international meet in Perth next year and he is not aiming small.
I just hope I can get gold, he said.
He is in year 6 at Nazareth Primary School in Shellharbour. School principal Sister Anne said Te Haumi is a wonderful example to other students.
He is a great lad, nice to have around, she said.