Sydney Catholic Schools is celebrating the outstanding achievements of Year 10 student Lucas Dawes, from De La Salle Revesby Heights, who once again proved himself one of Australia’s brightest young divers at the Australian All Schools Diving Championships in Queensland.
Competing in five events across four days, Lucas returned as a remarkable five-time medalist, including four national titles.
He claimed gold in the synchronised team, platform, springboard, and synchronised mixed events, along with a bronze medal in the knockout competition.
Lucas also contributed to the championships as a judge, showcasing not only his athletic talent but also his strong technical understanding of the sport.
Lucas’ journey into diving is far from ordinary. “I was a competitive trampolinist and tumbler for almost eight or nine years,” he said.
A family friend, Olympic water polo coach Rebecca Rippon, encouraged him to attend a NSW Institute of Sport diving trial aimed at gymnasts and trampolinists.
Although he didn’t progress into the institute, he discovered something even more valuable.
“I just fell in love with the aspect of diving into the pool and doing cool flips into the water… I have since continued diving through COVID and have never not enjoyed being there.”
His success over the years has been impressive and wide-ranging.
“Some of my biggest achievements in my sport have to be being crowned national champion in both club, school, and institute pathways over several years,” he said.
He is also proud of the recognition he has received within Catholic school sport, including the Sydney Catholic Schools Sports Awards and being a two-time NSWCCC Blue and then Bar Award recipient.
Lucas is quick to acknowledge those who have helped him along the way.
“All these school awards would never be possible without the support from my family, my school, and the PDHPE staff, especially Ms McPherson and Mr Kulish, they have backed me and supported me through everything,” he said.
Looking ahead, Lucas has big dreams but an even bigger desire to give back.
“In the next five years, it would be a great dream to turn professional and try and make it internationally,” he said.
He hopes to remain part of the diving world for life, whether as an athlete, coach, or judge.
“Going to the Olympics as an athlete, coach, or judge would be a dream come true.”
Above all, Lucas wants to make a difference for others.
“I want to help other kids and athletes who don’t get the same opportunities. I always believe every person should get an equal and fair shot to become the best they can be.”
With his talent, humility, and passion for his sport, Lucas Dawes continues to rise, an athlete committed not just to his own success but to lifting others with him.