Swimmers from Barking & Dagenham Aquatics Club have been selected as Everyone Active Sporting Champions. The scheme spotlights Brock Whiston and Mia Newman. Whilst Brock is now an established Paralympic sportsperson after securing a Gold medal in Paris 2024; Mia is a rising star who swims in our Gold Squad training with Coach Monica Wise.
Through the scheme, Brock unlocks top-tier training environments and says: “Swimming is a place where it’s just me and the water. I love pushing my body to see what I can achieve.” A truly inspiring role model for our younger swimmers and those striving for excellence, she adds: “My passion for success in the pool is what motivates me, and other athletes’ success inspires me.”
Mia will benefit from the scheme as a rising star through opportunities to grow, connect and develop alongside the UK’s most promising athletes. Mia’s passion for swimming really shines. She says: “Swimming is more than just fun for me — it’s a big part of who I am and what I love to do.” In addition to support that she’ll get as a sporting champion, there is the daily support from those closest to Mia that she recognises: “My friends, family, and coaches all motivate me to push myself to swim my best. Even if one race doesn’t go as planned, I know I can always improve in the next one.”
Mia and Brock both recently medalled at the SE Regional Championships. Next up for Mia is the Gators Gala on 22 June at the London Aquatics Centre before she heads to the Maltese Nationals; whilst Brock was recently selected for the World Para Swimming Championships this September in Singapore. prior to which she will compete at the Aquatics GB Next Gen Championships in July.