The Junior Black Fins have named their captain for the upcoming Lifesaving World Championships on the Gold Coast.

Whangamata’s Milana Tapper will lead the team at the beach and the pool when competition kicks off on August 28.

“With so many top-quality athletes in our team, making a decision on who would be captain was tough,” campaign lead Zac Franich says.

“Milana has great and distinct leadership qualities and we know she will lead the team with passion and drive.”

Tapper comes into the Junior Black Fins camp fresh from representing New Zealand at the Junior Pan Pacific swimming championships in Canberra last week, alongside fellow team members Jasper Cornish and Zoe Pedersen.

“There’s a great vibe within the team, with the last pieces of preparation getting polished – they’re ready to lay down world-class performances. It’s going to be an exciting week.” Franich says.

The Junior Black Fins have been forced to make a change to their squad with Daniel Callebaut ruled out of racing due to a severe stress reaction in his femur.

“Losing someone to injury in any team is difficult, particularly at a world championship event. Collectively everyone is gutted for Daniel, he’s a quality athlete and person,” says Franich.

“Protecting his long-term athletic aspirations is paramount, and with guidance from our medical team, it’s the right decision to make.”

As a result of Callebaut’s injury the Junior Black Fins have called in Braith Swanberg of Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club in the Bay of Plenty.

“Braith has been in our wider squad and comes in having had an impressive summer of racing with solid pool rescue skills” Franich says.

“Braith’s a talented athlete with an excellent attitude. We’re confident he will fit straight into the team and that the team will equally embrace him and make him feel right at home.”

The Junior Black Fins kick off their racing on Wednesday 28 August with a specialised pool rescue event known as SERC before hitting the beach at Kurrawa and then closing the competition back at the pool at Southport.

Key dates:

• The Black Fins and Junior Black Fins will compete in the 2024 Lifesaving World Championships from 28 August to 1 September
• The Black Props will be competing on 4 September at Kurrawa Beach, Broadbeach
• Masters competition runs from 23-28 August
• Interclub competition runs from 3-8 September

For more information (including live streaming details), visit www.lwc2024.com.