Max Brick took a bronze medal at his first ever senior international diving competition, "The Spring Swallows" Fina Diving Grand Prix event in Moscow.
The fifteen year old who is based at the Quays Swimming and Diving Complex, was selected to join the British team along with fellow diver, Chris Mears, also fifteen and coach, Charly Tomkys. Despite both still being Juniors the boys were given the opportunity of senior international experience in recognition of the fact that they are in line for slots on the Senior British squad within the next few years and are aspiring to compete at the Olympics in 2012.
The event attracted twelve countries from across the world, including top diving nations such as China, Germany and the USA.
Max's medal came in the highboard synchro event, in a new partnership with Callum Johnstone (17) from Sheffield. Despite having had only limited opportunities to train together the boys performed well, holding out hopes of a successful career together for the future.
Max also competed in the men's 10m event, gaining a place in the semi-final and finally settling for a creditable 11th place.
On 3m springboard Chris was the youngest competitor in his event and made a personal best to finish in 17th place in a distinguished field. He also competed in the 3m synchro event with partner Charles Calvert (17) from Leeds. The boys produced a steady list, earning them 8th place and warm congratulations from the travelling head coach.
For Charly Tomkys this was a first selection as coach to a senior international meet. Following her success in being awarded the coveted Sportscoach UK's Young Coach of the Year award in 2007, she is now being offered further opportunities to develop her career and rose to the challenge in supporting the team in Moscow.
Director of coaching, Lindsey Fraser, was delighted with the outcomes. "This was an important opportunity for both the boys and Charly," she explained "and I was thrilled that they were selected to attend this event. The boys' results were very promising at a meet of this standard."
Both divers will be competing at the National Junior Elite Championships in Leeds over half term, where they will be aiming to secure places on the rostrum and ensure their continued place in the National Squad.