Sport
2 November, 2026
Swimmer’s national honour
PARA swimmer Nathan Andronicus has been selected to represent Australia at the 2027 Virtus Asia Oceania Games, marking another milestone in his competitive swimming career.
The multi-class S14 swimmer, who trains with Marlin Coast Swimming Club, has also achieved qualifying times for the World Para Series while working towards his long-term ambition of competing at the Paralympics.
Andronicus began swimming as a young child and took up competitive swimming in 2018, encouraged by a former Marlin Coast coach.
He represented Australia at the 2025 Global Games in Thailand, calling international competition his greatest achievement to date.
“Probably making it to like an international level game,” he said.
Andronicus now completes nearly seven training sessions each week, including CrossFit, while balancing his sporting commitments with work.
His ambitions extend beyond competitive success, with a focus on encouraging greater participation by people with hidden disabilities.
“Hopefully, you know, go to the Paralympics as a S14 swimmer, and also continuing the swimming journey with sports inclusion, and explore the world just by doing the sports and inspire the other hidden disabilities to get into sports and, you know, do something,” he said.
Coach Aaron Leslie Stone, who has worked with Andronicus for about nine months, praised his strength, attention to detail and willingness to help other swimmers.
“He is one of the most, how would you put it, enthusiastic about helping other swimmers,” he said.
Stone said Andronicus had made considerable progress in his swimming technique and ability to respond to coaching.
“When he has power, when he wants to be powerful in the water, he does it. And when he’s pushed to it, he will,” he said.
Stone works alongside Marlin Coast Swimming head coach Goshi Yamauchi, supported by physiotherapists, strength training specialists and a dietitian.
Stone said Andronicus’s future achievements would depend on his continued commitment. “As far as he is willing to push himself,” he said.
Andronicus is now preparing for a busy 2027 competition schedule, including the World Para Series, Virtus Asia Oceania Games, Australian Open and Australian Trials, as he continues pursuing opportunities to represent Australia internationally.
