Joseph: Tanzanian swimmer excited with World Aquatics scholarship

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s swimming star, Michael Joseph, has secured a World Aquatics (WA) scholarship in France, an opportunity he is determined to use to advance his career and elevate the sport in Tanzania.

Michael has already joined the Cercle des Nageurs d'Antibes (CN Antibes), a prestigious swimming training centre in France.

Speaking to The Citizen, Joseph expressed his excitement and optimism about the opportunity, which he described as a milestone for both his personal career and the sport in Tanzania.

“I am very happy and excited to secure this opportunity. It is a golden chance to showcase my abilities and make the country proud,” he said.

He said he aims to use this platform to improve his personal best times and meet qualifying standards for international competitions.

The swimmer, who has honed his skills at Taliss-IST, is regarded as one of the top swimmers in the country. He credited his success to the support and guidance of his coaches, as well as his dedication to the sport.

Coach Msabila Charles praises Joseph’s dedication

Former FK Blue Marlins coach Msabila Charles lauded Joseph’s work ethic and passion for swimming.

He attributed the swimmer’s success to his discipline and determination to excel in a sport that demands high levels of accountability and effort.

“Swimming is one of the most challenging and competitive sports. It requires active participation and consistent effort to succeed,” Charles said.

The coach recalled Joseph’s journey, stating that he began training him at the age of 13 and worked with him for five years.

“I built his strength and skills before he joined other clubs. It’s rewarding to see him succeed at this level,” he added.

Charles noted that he trained Joseph from 2019 with FK Blue Marlins and later with his established Premier Swimming Club until early 2024 when Joseph joined Taliss-IST swimming club.

A bright future for Tanzanian swimming

Joseph’s participation in the World Aquatics Scholarship Programme highlights the potential of Tanzanian swimmers to excel on the global stage.

His journey reflects the importance of investing in talent and providing opportunities for athletes to train in world-class facilities.

With the support of dedicated coaches and exposure to elite training programmes, Joseph is well-positioned to represent Tanzania with pride and inspire future generations of swimmers.

His success underscores the growing potential of swimming as a competitive sport in Tanzania.

Cercle des Nageurs d'Antibes: A hub of excellence

The Cercle des Nageurs d'Antibes (CN Antibes) is one of France's most renowned swimming clubs, with a history of nurturing talent and achieving international success.

Founded in 1965, the Cercle des Nageurs d'Antibes is one of France's most decorated swimming clubs: 16 Olympic medals, 9 World Championship medals, 200 French Championship titles, 7 European Championship titles, 3 European records, and 10 World Records.

A training club, a club of excellence, and an accession and training center, CN Antibes has become a key player in swimming in France and worldwide.

It established the first World Aquatics Training Centre in France in conjunction with World Aquatics for its Scholarship Programme. From apprenticeship to international elite, CN Antibes covers all areas of aquatic sports to the delight of its 1,200 members.

For Joseph, this prestigious training environment offers a unique opportunity to refine his skills and compete at the highest level.