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Last month, at just 15 years of age, Holly Warn was selected as the youngest member of the Australian Paralympic swim team. The recognition marked yet another high point in the teen’s already head-spinning rise from local swim meets to the world stage in less than two years.
Holly’s elevation to Paralympian is a testament to her dedication, the power of a supportive environment, and the transformative impact of Cerebral Palsy Alliance (CPA) therapy services and community.
From an early age, Holly dreamt of being a Paralympian. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at five months old, Holly faced significant challenges that affected her motor skills and muscle control. Despite these obstacles, she found her sanctuary in the water.
“When my head is in the water no one is judging me – it’s freedom”
Holly’s early introduction to swimming was encouraged by CPA’s therapy programs, which provided her with the physical and emotional support she needed.
CPA recommended hydrotherapy to build strength and mobility, recalls Holly’s father, John.
“By 18 months old, she was swimming unaided. It gave her incredible confidence and joy. “
CPA has played a crucial role in Holly’s development, both as a person and an athlete. Holly began her journey at CPA’s hydrotherapy pool in Allambie Heights, participating in regular swim meets with other children with cerebral palsy.
These early experiences were instrumental in shaping her love for swimming and competition.
“Being part of the CPA community meant Holly felt accepted and encouraged, ” John explains.
“The therapists and doctors were phenomenal, providing tailored support that made a real difference.”
CPA’s world-class therapy services have played a key role in Holly’s progress. Through consistent physiotherapy, occupational therapy and exercise physiology sessions, plus multi-sports camps and Allambie Seals swimming club, Holly worked hard to improve her fine motor skills and control muscle spasms.
“I would not have the mobility or ability I have today without all the work I did with my therapists in the early days. Peter King, the sports coach, introduced me to competitive swimming. Without him I might not be here.”
When we moved to the Gold Coast in 2019, I was sad to leave Cerebral Palsy Alliance and all my therapists. There’s nothing like it here in QLD. “
Holly’s dedication to her sport is evident in her rigorous training schedule. Spending 16 hours a week in the pool, she has honed her skills and competed against older, more experienced swimmers. This determination paid off when she qualified for the S7 classification in 100m and 400m freestyle events for the Paralympics. Swimmers in this classification have use of their arms and trunk. They have limited leg function or are missing a leg or parts of both legs.
Holly’s advice to other children is,
“Don’t listen to those who say you can’t. You must believe in yourself before others can. Chase your dreams.”
Holly’s journey is not just a personal victory; it serves as an inspiration to others. At just 15 years old, Holly has not only secured a spot on the Australian Paralympic swim team but also inspired countless others with her story of resilience and triumph.
It’s a fact not lost on Holly, who remembers being inspired by watching her role model, Paralympic swimmer Madison Elliot, win gold and later meeting her.
“It was pretty cool to meet Madison. I’ve met her twice now. First when I was about 9 on the pool deck at SOPAC and again last year at school nationals where she presented me my medal. I have photos of both to prove it!”
Holly is competing at the Paralympics along with CPA client, Mali Lovell.
“CPA has been a cornerstone of Holly’s journey, ” John says.
“Our family will be forever grateful for their support.
