KOROR, PALAU -Goodell's swimming credentials are exceptional. Beyond his Olympic triumphs, he accumulated 10 US National titles, nine NCAA championships, three Pan American gold medals, and set 15 world and American records during his illustrious career. Swimming World Magazine honored him as both "World Men's Swimmer of the Year" and "US Men's Swimmer of the Year," cementing his status among the sport's elite.

However, it was his approach to high-pressure competition that truly set Goodell apart. Reflecting on his first Olympic gold medal, he revealed a pivotal moment that exemplifies his mental fortitude: "I was two body lengths behind the leader with about 400 meters to go. I was in third place, and I thought maybe I'm not going to win this race. Right then I visualized the award ceremony in my mind, and it wasn't the picture that I had focused on and practiced over and over. Suddenly my subconscious mind said no way, and I just started moving."

This mental visualisation technique, which Goodell credits as crucial to his success, forms part of his coaching philosophy today. "It's an important aspect of sport, and unfortunately, it's not one that's coached or trained very well around the world," he explains. "It's probably one of the biggest aspects of success in sports, yet it's a rare skill to develop."

As a 17-year-old competing in his first major international competition, Goodell understands the challenges facing young swimmers who often transition from small community competitions to the international stage. His advice is both practical and encouraging: "Just come and do the best you can and have fun. We have to help be that calming influence on these athletes and help them be peaceful about it and intentional."

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Invited by ONOC Secretary General, Rick Blas, due to a shared vision for the Development Training Camp Programme, Brian Goodell's commitment extends far beyond individual athlete development to building a sustainable pathway for swimming. This alignment of purpose reflects Goodell's understanding that meaningful change requires long-term strategic thinking.

He sees the camps as essential stepping stones for athletes: "It's another expansion of that comfort zone at a bigger stage. When an athlete is selected to come to a camp like that, that's a little star on their shoulder that says they're good enough to be selected to go and see how they can do in a bigger program."

The camps serve multiple purposes beyond technical training. "It's building that confidence over and over," Goodell explains. "Think of it like a flower blossoming. I'm blossoming out of my confidence and my awareness and my ability, realizing that I can do it."

For coaches accompanying their athletes, Goodell emphasizes the transformative nature of the experience: "The interaction with everyone from ONOC has been wonderful. We're developing such a stronger and closer relationship with everyone on the staff and from the sporting side, from the coaches and the athletes."

Having served as Mayor of Mission Viejo and maintaining deep community ties, he brings valuable insight into the importance of sustained investment in athlete development infrastructure. The Pacific Mini Games in Palau represent a crucial opportunity for talent identification, where ONOC, working through the NOCs alongside expert coaches, will collaborate to identify and nurture emerging talent across the region.

Looking toward the future, Goodell's message to young Pacific swimmers reflects his own journey from a small program to Olympic glory: "Take yourself very seriously because you can make a difference. Decide what you want, go for it, and take advantage of every opportunity you're given."

Through ONOC's Development Training Camp Programme, Brian Goodell continues to share the wisdom gained from his remarkable career, ensuring that swimmers have access to world-class coaching and the mental tools necessary for international success. His involvement represents more than technical expertise; it embodies the Olympic spirit of excellence, friendship, and respect that continues to inspire the next generation of Oceania champions.

Brian Goodell will continue his involvement with ONOC's Development Training Camps, including talent identification support at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau, as part of the organization's comprehensive athlete development pathway leading to LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032.

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