Oma Commits To REDS

(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB REDS men’s swimming team is naming freestyler Nolan Oma, of Ottawa, to their recruiting class of 2025.

The 17-year-old, completing his Grade 12 year at Ottawa’s École Secondaire Catholique Franco-Cité, has signed a U SPORTS Letter of Intent and will join the REDS ahead of the 2025-2026 Atlantic University Sport season.

“He brings a strong competitive background and a real sense of purpose, both in and out of the pool,” said REDS’ head coach Marta Belsh, of Oma. “His dedication and character stood out immediately.”

A veteran of the Ravens of Carleton swim club, Oma is a three-time Ontario Youth-Junior Championships and Ontario Age Group Championships qualifier. He’s also an Ontario Summer Games veteran.

“The REDS appealed to me in many ways,” said Oma. “The small team and university feel which would allow for more one-on-one time with the coaches, and the history of the team and long-standing existence of the school were factors.”

“Nolan is precisely the kind of student-athlete we look for,” added Coach Belsh. “He’s focused, driven, and a natural team player.”

Oma, who specializes in middle and long distance events, has set medalling at an AUS meet as an early goal. Longer-term, he hopes to establish times to qualify for the U SPORTS Championships.

“I believe myself to be a good leader and someone who can bring strong and positive encouragement to the team,” he said. “I also believe that my sociability is a key asset.”

Oma will study Software Engineering while attending UNB.

STORY BY: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics

PHOTO: Submitted