As the World Short Course Championships approach, excitement is building for the Irish swimming team heading to Budapest. Danielle Hill, the European 50m backstroke champion and one of Ireland's standout athletes from the Paris Olympics, headlines a 13-member squad that showcases Ireland's growing prowess in the swimming arena.

This year's championships will be held from December 10-15, and it promises to be an exhilarating event for the swimmers involved. Hill will be joined by fellow Olympians Ellen Walshe, Tom Fannon, Shane Ryan, and Max McCusker. Notably, Walshe is returning after a silver medal performance at the 2021 World Short Course tests in Abu Dhabi, bringing with her the valuable experience of a championship-level competitor.

Though prominent medallists Daniel Wiffen and Mona McSharry will miss this competition, their absence has opened the door for rising stars like Nathan Wiffen, who is also part of the squad. Additionally, swimmers from Northern Ireland, Ellie McCartney and Lottie Cullen, have earned their spots, reflecting the strength of the region in the sport.

The squad further includes John Shortt, who just recently set a new Irish senior record in the 200m backstroke, showcasing the depth of talent in Irish swimming right now.

Jon Rudd, Swim Ireland's national performance director, expressed his thoughts on the team's preparation: "This event is a very individualised affair, with some athletes ready and raring to go again and others needing additional time to regroup and refresh after a hectic summer, particularly one which proved to be the best ever for Ireland in Olympic waters."

Rudd continued to emphasize the confidence permeating the Irish swimming community as they build towards the 50m-pool event in Singapore next summer. The current squad reflects a mixture of seasoned experience and emerging talent, making Ireland a formidable competitor at the championships.

Ireland's World Short Course Championships squad includes:

• Evan Bailey
• Jack Cassin
• Eoin Corby
• Niamh Coyne
• Lottie Cullen
• Tom Fannon
• Danielle Hill
• Ellie McCartney
• Max McCusker
• Shane Ryan
• John Shortt
• Ellen Walshe
• Nathan Wiffen

With this strong lineup, fans can expect thrilling performances from the Irish team in Budapest, marking another step forward on their road to success in international swimming.