Wyatt Walsh and Borna Kisasondi took different paths to Quincy University, but both found success in the pool and the classroom. Their journeys, filled with dedication, adaptability, and ambition, have made them key figures in Quincy’s emerging swimming program.

Wyatt Walsh: From Marine Aspirations to Collegiate Success

Swimming has been a constant in Walsh’s life since childhood. While he experimented with multiple sports growing up, swimming was the one that remained. As he progressed through high school, he set his sights on the United States, determined to compete in collegiate swimming.

However, when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted his plans, he briefly considered joining the Royal Marines. Just as that path seemed set, an opportunity arose that changed his course an offer to swim at Quincy University. Without hesitation, Walsh accepted the challenge and moved to the U.S. to pursue his athletic and academic goals.

Now in his third year at Quincy, Walsh is excelling both in the pool and in the classroom as he works toward a bachelor’s degree in computer science. With just one year left, he is looking ahead, hoping to stay in the U.S. after graduation and build a career in his field. His journey is one of resilience and determination, proving that even unexpected detours can lead to remarkable opportunities.

Borna Kisasondi: A European Talent Making History

Kisasondi’s swimming career began at the age of seven, fueled by a need for an outlet for his boundless energy. Before fully committing to the sport, he tried soccer, karate, and tennis, but none challenged him the way swimming did. His skills grew rapidly, and after transitioning to PK Dubrava, his career took off.

At Dubrava, Kisasondi’s dedication led him to compete in the European Junior Championship, where he placed 18th in the morning heats, narrowly missing a spot in the semifinals. Knowing the challenges of balancing higher education and swimming in Croatia, his coach who had connections with U.S. programs, introduced him to the idea of competing abroad. Out of the five swimmers considered the backbone of their program, four made the move to the United States, including Kisasondi.

In 2022, Coach Bryan Christiansen reached out to Kisasondi about Quincy’s newly forming swimming program. Seeing an opportunity to be part of something special, he joined the team and pursued his longtime passion for psychology. Now in his final year, he plans to continue his education with a master’s degree in the field.

The past few seasons have been pivotal for Kisasondi and the Quincy swimming program. His 2023-2024 season was a breakthrough he competed at nationals in the 100 fly, becoming the first-ever Second-Team All-American in Quincy swimming history. Now, he is preparing to take on an even bigger challenge: competing at West Virginia University in the Big 12 Championship, one of the prestigious Power Five conferences. His goal is to make as many finals as possible and earn a qualifying time for the Division I Nationals in the relays.

A Legacy in the Making

Walsh and Kisasondi have played instrumental roles in the growth and success of Quincy’s swimming program. Their journeys from different corners of the world to making history at the university highlight their perseverance and passion for the sport.

As they approach the next chapters of their careers, whether in the workforce or on a national swimming stage, their stories serve as inspiration for future Quincy athletes who dare to dream big and push their limits.