Waterpolo Goalkeeper Claire Durston's Olympic Quest

**This episode was uniquely recorded prior to the Paris 2024 Games qualification process for water polo **

Can you imagine the pressure of standing between the goalposts, knowing every decision could make or break the match? 
Join us as we sit down with Claire Durston, a remarkable water polo goalkeeper from the Cronulla Sharks, and her mother, Meg, to uncover Claire's extraordinary journey from Perth to her desire for the Paris Olympic Games. Claire shares how her impressive height and wingspan became her greatest assets, initially choosing the goalkeeper position to stay on the same team as her friends. 

Mum Meg provides an intimate look into Claire's athletic upbringing, highlighting her diverse sporting background and the pivotal moment when water polo became her passion.

Navigating the financial and emotional hurdles of competitive sports is no small feat. Meg opens up about the sacrifices and challenges their family faced to support Claire’s athletic dreams. From the escalating expenses of high-level competitions to scholarships that offered much-needed relief, their story is one of resilience and determination. We also explore the emotional toll of the COVID-19 pandemic on athletes like Claire, who had to adapt to travel restrictions and the uncertainty of Olympic selections. Throughout this journey, resilience and a supportive family network proved crucial in overcoming these daunting challenges.

Finally, we delve into the exhilarating yet nerve-wracking athlete selection process. Discover the emotional highs and lows of selection camps, where athletes' futures hang in the balance based on subjective decisions. Claire and Meg shed light on the importance of family connections, especially during tough times, bolstered by regular virtual meet-ups. 

We also introduce the mission of the Aussie Athlete Fund, which aims to support athletes' well-being and education, ensuring they thrive both in and out of the water. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance, family support, and the relentless pursuit of one's dreams.

Become a part of our athletes' success stories: Whether its a personal donation, a corporate partnership, a round of golf, or simply by spreading the word, your support has the power to uplift our athletes and inspire countless others!

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