Swim coach counts on US strategy to aid Aussies

SWIMMING: After adopting the approach of the United States, Australian swimming coach Jacco Verhaeren is convinced the Dolphins can replicate the Americans’ success after moving their trials closer to the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

The four-day trials start at the Gold Coast tomorrow, moved from the traditional April window to just five weeks before the Games after a disappointing showing in the Rio Olympic pool.

Verhaeren was confident the late trials would help them repeat Australia’s success at the 2014 Pan Pacific championships, also held at the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre.

Four years ago, Australia took it to the all-conquering Americans led by Michael Phelps and Katie Ledecky to claim 10 gold and finish a close second on the Pan Pacs medal table to the US.

“It’s why we did it. We wanted to select our athletes closer to the meet so they can be in the form and shape they are already in at the Games,” Verhaeren said.

“In between Commonwealth Games and Pan Pacs in 2014 we had our trials just weeks before and that worked out brilliantly.

“I have no doubt that it will succeed.”

The trials will officially welcome back world-beating trio Cate Campbell, James Magnussen and Kyle Chalmers.

Former world champion Campbell took a 2017 sabbatical from competition after her disappointing Rio Olympic 100m freestyle finish.

“Cate is in a really good space. She showed she made the right choice by taking a break from the team last year,” Verhaeren said.

“That was well thought through for her. I am definitely looking forward to seeing her compete.”

Former dual world champion Magnussen took the year off to recover from shoulder issues while Chalmers missed the 2017 world titles due to a heart operation.

“They are truly excited to perform and are in fine shape,” Verhaeren said.