That youngster was Freya Colbert. The same Freya Colbert who now has a major opportunity of her own to bring home silverware from Paris as part of AquaticsGB’s expectant squad.
The current Loughborough University student has had a remarkable year. In February she secured two medals at the 2024 World Championships in Doha, including a maiden global title in the 400m individual medley.
Now, with the games a matter of days away, the 20-year-old has all eyes on the pool in France.
“I'm so excited to say that I've been a part of Team GB and worn those Olympic rings on my chest. Having my name up there with incredible people, it’s a feeling of privilege,” Colbert told Loughborough Sport.
“To see my name next to people who have achieved such amazing things…it's a small group of people. If I go and make a final that’s an even smaller group…and if I medal, it’s even smaller!
“There are obviously the nerves that come with it, but I feel confident in the preparation and what we're doing now. I feel very confident that we're all going to put down good performances when we get out there.
“If I can put down the best version of myself and everything goes to plan, I think I can get close to winning a medal. If you see me with one around my neck, you’ll know that I'm very happy.”
For all the latest Loughborough news around major global sporting events, visit the University’s dedicated website here: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/sport/athletes-global-stage/
Join the conversation on social media with the hashtag #Lboro2Paris