Hosted by Dave Culbert

Delving into all things Commonwealth Games between now and the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

We recap the week that was, chat to a Games star of the past, present or future and take a look at the week ahead for our Commonwealth Games aspirants.

EPISODE 13: World University Games

In Taipei for the World University Games, Dave Culbert chats to swimming duo Ben Treffers and Leiston Pickett. The pair reflect on memories of Commonwealth gold, their preparations for GC2018 and the growing excitement on the Gold Coast.

Treffers and Pickett also share what it’s like to balance high performance sport and tertiary study.

LISTEN:

Benn Treffers says he is in a prime position to challenge for Commonwealth Games selection thanks to the influence of his new coach and dual Commonwealth Games gold medallist Ashley Callus.

“He doesn’t really call himself a coach, he calls himself more of a manager or just helping us along. He’s one of the most passionate people I’ve ever been around and he really just wants to get the best out of us.”

“He’s really keen to see what our limits are and test our limits and see how fast we can go. That’s been really exciting.

Treffers says the change of coaching style Callus has brought has been a breath of fresh air.

“For me it’s been a big change. My previous coach John Fowlie was probably a bit more intense than Ash is.”

“Ash has been able to from his swimming background take on [the fact that] lots of things happen in life and provide that balance. At the end of the day it’s only swimming. Yes it’s an important part of your life – but that’s all it is, a part of your life. He really tries to make the team environment enjoyable for us.”

Local girl Leiston Picket admits she senses an aura of expectation on the Gold Coast ahead of GC2018.

The Gold Coast-based dual Commonwealth Games gold medallist has been training at the GC2018 swimming venue for the past 11 years.

“The culture, the environment and the excitement is really building on the Gold Coast and I will be doing everything I can to be able to make sure I’m there competing.”

“I’ve just started to let it wash over me… at least once a week someone asks me are you going to the Commonwealth Games and I’m like I’m trying, I’m doing my best.”

Pickett says she’ll use the familiarity of the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre to her advantage.

“I know the environment will change a lot from my everyday training environment once they get the stands up [and] all the merchandise and advertising it’s really going to change and transform it, but I know that it’s my home environment and I feel comfortable there.”

“Getting up and racing I know that it’s going to be my time – that’s my pool.”