Sam Fricker started diving in 2012 to impress a girl he had a crush on at the time.

Sadly, the relationship didn’t work out, but in the process Fricker fell in love with something else, the sport of diving.

Nine years later that love led to Fricker securing his position on the 2020 Australian Olympic Team.

As a Men’s 10-Metre Platform diver, it comes as little surprise that Fricker’s favourite Olympic memory is that of fellow Australian Matthew Mitcham securing the gold medal at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.

From the viewpoint of any spectator, it is no surprise to see reflections of the Olympic Champion in Fricker’s own approach to diving. His confidence in his competition, his steady approach to his list, and the pure joy after he nails a perfect dive.

His coach Thomas Rickards agrees.

“Sam’s positive energy and sense of humour help bring out the best in himself and teammates every day at training,” Rickards said.

“Sam has a burning desire to perform on the world stage which keeps Sam improving all the time.

“With Sam there is no challenge to great and has the ability to arise to the occasion in competitions.”

The Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games will be Fricker’s first major international competition after a series of strong showings at FINA Diving Grand Prix events.

Yet the 19-year-old is no stranger to international attention, with a following of more than half a million on his booming TikTok account.

However, it hasn’t come easy for Fricker who is well known in diving circles for his hard work and fearless tenacity.

Though solid recovery and support from his team and network, Fricker has overcome fractures in wrist, injuries in his back, and minor shoulder injuries.

Nevertheless, his sights are firmly set on his long-term goal. To stand atop the podium at the Olympic Games with a gold medal around his neck.

Watch Sam Fricker compete at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games in the Men’s 10-Metre Platform Preliminary Friday August 6, 2021.

Age: 19

Hometown: Newcastle

Coach: Thomas Rickards

Event: Men’s 10-Metre Platform

Olympic Games: 2020