TACOMA, Wash. – Junior swimmer Jaden Francis took his first step in pursuit of his dream to compete in the Olympics when he represented Guam in last month's 2023 Pacific Games, held in the Solomon Islands.

"I am so proud to wear the Guam seal on our uniforms and represent our small island and compete at a higher level of competition", expressed Francis. "The experience has motivated me to train hard and possibly represent the island at more competitions in the future. I would like to thank both my teammates and coaches at home and abroad for their support."

Francis' highest place finish was in the 200-meter butterfly event finishing in 5^th place, while also qualifying for two other individual finals in the 100m butterfly and the 400m individual medley.  The Guam mixed medley 4X50 relay team, with Francis swimming the breaststroke leg of the race, set a national record with its 5^th place finish.  

Having spent part of his youth in Guam, Francis received qualification selection from the Guam Swimming Federation and the Guam National Olympic Committee, and will next look to earn a roster spot for the World Championships in Fukuoka, Japan in July.   

In the meantime, Francis will continue to represent Puget Sound for the 2023-24 season, competing in the freestyle, butterfly and relay events.   Francis earned All-NWC Second Team honors in 2023 for his top 8 finish in the 100 butterfly. 

"It's an honor that Logger Swimming is a part of Jaden's quest to make the Olympics", said Head Coach Jay Daniels. "An opportunity like this is pretty unique for a Division III student-athlete, so when Jaden shared this goal with me, I was excited to support in any way I could. Jaden is proud of what he does and where he is from, and the Loggers are inspired by his journey and are excited to support him along the way."