12 Mar 2025
Rottnest Channel Swim champion, and Corpus Christi College alumnus, Max Coten said his academic and athletics success is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the importance of having a support system. In February, Max completed the 19.7km crossing in 4 hours 2 minutes and 15 seconds – cementing his place among Australia’s elite in open water swimming.
“At the moment of winning I didn’t have the
energy to have much of a reaction. I gave the race everything I possibly could have and ultimately collapsed like a rag doll as soon as I crossed the finish line. The preparation and focus took a colossal psychological toll; more than anything, I just wanted to rest knowing that I got the job done.
“After seeing my family and friends at the finish line, the first thing I did was call my coach Eoin Carroll. We didn’t say much but it was just the unspoken feeling knowing that we did it. The overwhelming amount of support and messages in the days that followed was a very humbling experience.”
Max’s preparation for the Swim consisted of nine two-hour swim sessions and two gym sessions every week throughout the year.
“Usually, a day will consist of waking up at 4:30 am, swimming from 5:30 to 7:30, doing study or work from 9 am to 3 pm, and then doing another gym or swim session.”
Currently completing his Honours thesis researching statistical methods for oceanography, the UWA Bachelor of Philosophy major (Mathematics and Statistics) intends to keep his grades up while pursuing his passion in sports.
“There is no career in swimming or really any sport. Your professional or academic life always needs to take priority over your sporting career. Having something to fall back on is essential, not just to support oneself but to avoid letting self-worth disappear due to an injury or similar,” Max said.
“I think it all comes down to being organised, working efficiently, and making sacrifices. Personally, I’ve never thought of it as ‘sacrifices’ but rather as ‘choices.’ In school, I would spend my Friday night studying instead of going out with friends. It’s just a case of deciding what’s more important to you.”
Dubbed a ‘late bloomer,’ Max struggled for over a decade before finally winning gold and breaking his first school record in Year 9. He credits his educators from Orana Catholic Primary School and Corpus Christi College for always believing in his potential.
“Two teachers who played a big part in my swimming career were James Howard and Rowan Platel. Their genuine care, interest, and support have been instrumental in my success and self-belief.”
Plans for the near future?
“My number one priority this year is completing my Honours thesis. I’m currently making plans to travel to Europe this June to attend (and present at) some conferences on offshore wind and environmental statistics.”
“Next year, I have several opportunities between graduate jobs or further study and my major race will be the National Championships in January. My support team and I have our goals planned and the future mapped out for the next several years.
“I won’t say too much but I don’t intend to retire from swimming anytime soon.”
