MOOSE JAW — Moose Jaw Kinsmen Flying Fins swimmer Leo Zheng and his longtime coach, Emma Hancock, are heading east to represent Saskatchewan on the national stage at the 2025 Canada Summer Games, set for Aug. 8 to 25 in St. John’s, N.L.
Both said they’re honoured by the opportunity — and are ready to make a splash.
“Leo and I were very excited and honoured to be selected to represent Team Sask,” Hancock said. “Leo has been long-listed for a long time, but to finally have confirmation was a relief. I am very proud of Leo and all the work he has put into this season, knowing that Canada Games was a possibility ….”
This marks Zheng’s second appearance at the Canada Games, but the athlete returning in 2025 is far more seasoned than the one who debuted in 2022.
“Back in 2022, things looked a lot different — he never even qualified for finals,” Hancock said. “This time, Leo is heading into it with some big goals, including winning a couple medals for Sask. I think it will be a full-circle moment for him by showcasing his development over the last three years, and jump-starting his development for the next three years as he prepares for the 2028 Paralympics.
Zheng, 18, is a dedicated para athlete with the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Flying Fins swim club. His selection follows a standout season that included international meets in Mexico, Spain, and Italy, as well as personal bests at the 2025 Canadian Swimming Trials in June — his first time qualifying for the national-level event.
“This season, he showcased his hard work and determination at trials and at multiple international competitions throughout the year,” said Hancock. “Leo had the opportunity to represent Team Sask (in 2022) … so he is approaching this year’s games as a leader and positive mentor for some of the younger athletes coming up.”
Zheng has also stepped into a new role this year as a development coach with the Flying Fins, helping younger swimmers build their skills — and reinforcing his own in the process.
“Being an athlete-coach opens a lot of doors and is a symbiotic relationship to further his success,” Hancock explained. “It has also been special watching the impact he has had on the developmental swimmers by sharing his knowledge and experiences with them.”
As for preparation, there’s little time to rest. Zheng will first travel to Sherbrooke, Que., to compete at the Canadian Short Course Swimming Championships, where he hopes to break Canadian and American records before flying to Newfoundland.
“We have been taking note on things we learned at trials regarding mental performance, as well as fine-tuning his race strategies to have some great races,” Hancock said.
She hopes Zheng’s selection will inspire other swimmers across Saskatchewan.
“Hopefully, Leo’s selection will show others what’s possible, and by leading by example, how hard work, determination, and discipline can help them achieve their goals.”
Hancock also extended thanks to those who have supported the program, including Coach Strasser for supporting Zheng and the Hrechka family for being his second home throughout the year.
“We would like to thank our many supporters of the Flying Fins — it’s because of them that we’re able to offer programs like our Development and Para Learn-to-Swim programs, as well as continue to develop our competitive athletes,” she said.
For young swimmers inspired by Zheng’s journey, the Flying Fins’ Summer Swim School runs Aug. 11 to 29 at the Kinsmen Sportsplex for ages four to 12. To learn more or to register, visit MJKFF.ca.
