Alicia Ready to Dive Into Success at
UniSport Nationals Swimming
Photo credit: Memories Captured by Ange
First-year mechanical engineering and maths and computer science student Alicia Livingston, is ready to turn heads in the pool as she takes on UniSport Nationals Swimming event from 16-18 May in Sydney, proudly representing the University of Adelaide in four events.
Specialising in backstroke and medley, Alicia will compete in the 50m, 100m, and 200m backstroke, along with the 200m individual medley. With her eyes set on finals and personal bests, she’s approaching the meet with experience, determination, and a sense of pride.
“I feel honoured and excited to be representing the University of Adelaide for the first time,” she says. “While I’ve had the opportunity to compete at other national-level competitions, this experience is different because it’s about contributing to the University’s reputation and spirit.”
Alicia began swimming competitively at the age of seven, quickly drawn to the thrill of racing others. Inspired by the Australian swim team’s performances on the Olympic stage, her early love for the sport has evolved into a full-scale commitment to elite training and national competition.
“I train eight or nine times a week in the pool and have three gym sessions on top of that,” she explains. It’s a big load, especially alongside a double degree in mechanical engineering and maths and computer science but Alicia has found her rhythm.
“I usually study during the day and on weekends so I can get to bed early for morning training. It’s quite difficult sometimes and I don’t get a lot of spare time, but I’m used to it because I’ve done it for so long.”
Despite her packed schedule, she remains focused - and goal driven. “I aim to make finals in all my events and achieve a personal best in at least one while ensuring I correctly execute my race plans,” she shares.
One of her proudest moments came last year when she qualified for the Olympic Trials, a major milestone in any swimmer’s journey. “Competing against the biggest names in the sport was incredibly satisfying and motivating,” she reflects.
Next up for Alicia is the Australian Swimming Trials in June. This is a selection meet for the 2025 World Championships and one of the highest levels of domestic competition. While she’s realistic about her chances this year, she’s not backing down. “I’m not expecting to make the team this time, but I am hoping to swim a personal best in my backstroke events.”
With plenty of talent, resilience, and an impressive work ethic, Alicia is showing what it means to chase big dreams - both in and out of the pool.