Monash makes a splash at the 2026 UniSport Swimming Nationals
Monash student-athletes have delivered a standout performance at the 2026 UniSport Australia Swimming Nationals, showcasing determination, teamwork and excellence across three days of competition in May.
A team of 16 Monash athletes competed strongly across multiple events, bringing home a total of 9 medals; 4 gold, 3 silver and 2 bronze. Their efforts also saw Monash finish as the highest performing Victorian university and secure 5th place overall nationally.
Among the highlights of the competition was an exceptional performance from Monash double degree Engineering and design student swimmer Nicholas Layton, who claimed 2 gold medals and 2 silver medals, and set two UniSport S15 records in the 100m and 200m freestyle events.
Nicholas’ achievements reflect both his individual dedication and the inclusive, supportive environment that enables Monash students to compete at their best.
“I’ve always enjoyed competing across both the Open and Multi-Class categories (able-bodied and para-swimming, respectively). As a deaf swimmer, it allows me to maximise my contribution to the team. I’d only recently returned to full-time training leading into the comp, so I was pleased to still be strongly competitive in the Open category.” Nicholas Layton
His performance highlights the resilience and commitment of Monash student-athletes, who balance academic study with high-performance sport at a national level.
The results from this year’s championships are a strong reflection of the broader student experience at Monash University—one that encourages participation, personal growth and achievement beyond the classroom.
Want to hear more from Nicholas? Watch his recent Student Spotlight video to learn more about his journey as a Monash student-athlete and his experience competing at nationals.
Interested in representing Monash? Explore upcoming varsity sport opportunities and find out how you can get involved in trials, training and competition throughout the year.
Congratulations to all athletes who represented Monash at the event, and thank you to the coaches and support staff who continue to enable these opportunities for our students.