ATLANTA — Brazilian swimmer João Caballero has dreamed of the Olympics since he was young in Brasilia. Starting his swimming journey at six, Caballero never doubted that he would one day compete on the world's biggest stage.
Caballero now swims for Georgia Tech and the Brazilian National Team and hopes to swim for Brazil in the Olympics. He chose this path to balance his high-level training with a solid education, with a little push from his mother.
"In Brazil, it's really hard to be like in the high level and study," Caballero said, adding later, "(Mom)she was like, 'you're not going to give up in your studies, you need to study.'"
Upon moving into his dorm at Georgia Tech, Caballero decorated his room with an Olympic flag to keep his dream alive and present every day.
"Every time that I wake up, I can see that and make my own goal," he said.
Training under a two-time Olympic gold medalist coach at Georgia Tech has been a significant source of inspiration for Caballero.
"So anytime I have the chance to ask her, I would," he said. "Few people in the world would be able to do that."
One of Caballero's most pivotal experiences at Georgia Tech has been training alongside Nic Fink, considered one of the best breaststrokers in the world.
"It was super nice to have Nick there," he said. He taught me a lot."
Fink's influence goes beyond technique. He taught Caballero to handle bad practices with a positive mindset.
"Nick told me that sometimes you're going to have bad days, and that's fine. You just keep going," Caballero shared.
Caballero's Olympic aspirations are not just personal. Representing Brazil and his family is a source of pride.
"So I wear like the Brazilian flag on my chest, like wear all the clothes and attire," he said.
As Caballero continues his journey toward the Olympics, he is motivated by the support of his coach and teammates and the dream he's had since childhood.
"Every time I think about it, I get emotional. It’s been a hard journey, but I know it will be worth it."