An athlete at the University of Sheffield Swim and Water Polo club has been shortlisted for the England team at the 2022 Commonwealth games.
Meg Richter, 20, didn’t know that she had been selected at first and only found out after reading her name on an article that revealed the 85 swimmers currently chosen ahead of the games in a years’ time.
She said: “I was very confused. It doesn’t mean I’m on the team but it is very exciting.”
The selections for the team have been decided on previous form, and the potential to win medals at the Games in Birmingham. This is some added pressure for Meg, as her intense 16-hours-a-week training regime has been diluted due to the pandemic.
“It is intimidating because I have gone from training eight times a week to two,” she added.
In order to qualify for Birmingham, Meg will have to attend trials when pandemic restrictions allow it. The trials will be split across Swim England camps and competitions, to ensure athletes will be prepared for 2022.
Swim and Water Polo’s Club Captain, Josh Peters told Forge Press there was immense pride in having a UoS swimmer make the England team. He said: “It’s always nice to receive good news.”
He was also full of praise for Meg’s work ethic: “I don’t think you can be at the top of your game in swimming and not put in the work.”
Meg’s swimming career started when she was five years old and all the work she has put in over the years has helped her reach this stage.
Mr Peters is hopeful that come the 2022 games, he and other members of the club will be able to see Megan compete at a global level.
