Courtesy olympics.com.au

In the world of synchronised diving, where precision and harmony is key, one might assume constant, close-proximity training is essential.

However, Australia's synchronised male and female diving duos have chosen a different approach, proving distance can be a surprising recipe for success.

Instead of training together, women’s pair Anabelle Smith (Melbourne) and Maddi Keeney (Brisbane) and men’s pair Cassiel Rousseau (Brisbane) and Domonic Bedggood (Melbourne) train separately in their hometowns, only coming together for training camps around competition to fine-tune their synchronisation.

The approach has proven a winning formula with Australia qualifying for Paris 2024.

Why don’t our divers train together?

For Maddi and Anabelle, having the flexibility to train separately and be near their family and friends means neither has to compromise and risk struggling outside of the pool, a mental barrier that could impair performance. 

"The separation definitely makes the time together more efficient because we know we have to make the most of the opportunities that we have,” Anabelle said. 

“It's difficult sometimes training away from each other but it only takes two or three sessions to get our timings back and because we've had so many years of experience now we swing back into action pretty quickly."

Anabelle and Maddi were first paired in 2013. Since then, the duo has won bronze at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, a milestone they hope to surpass in Paris.

Training separately does have its challenges. Diving on their own means they may “naturally gravitate towards a specific technique which might be slightly different to our partner,” Anabelle said.

The small nuances in individual diving technique, coupled with the sport requiring extreme synchronisation, make their success even more exceptional. 

With the aid of technology, like replay screens and video analysis, the pair can instantly review their dives and receive technical feedback, bridging the gap created by distance. 

Additionally, the introduction of a skill acquisition coach has allowed them to analyse their dives in detail and from a technical lens.

But like any other team sport the duo work towards their own individual milestones and then come together at the end with teammates to put it all together. 

The ability to train in familiar environments while maintaining open communication has been pivotal.

This setup has necessitated open and honest communication, especially crucial when unforeseen challenges arise like injuries, sickness, and differing perspectives. Being able to compromise is essential.

The Australian Synchronised Diving Team secured its place for Paris 2024 at the World Championships earlier this year. Cassiel Rousseau and Domonic Bedggood will compete in the men’s 10m platform division. 

The synchronised diving competition takes place at Paris Aquatic Centre between 27 July and 2 August 2024.