Deniz’s great success in Bahrain

Deniz Alper (17), a student in the Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation at Izmir University of Economics (IUE) and a national swimmer, became the world runner-up in the 50-meter backstroke with a time of 26.52 seconds at the International School Games' Bahrain 2024. Alper, who left his strong competitors behind to bring the silver medal to our country, aims for first place at the Turkey Short Course Championship, which will be held in Antalya in December.

Deniz Alper from Izmir started swimming at the age of 4 under the guidance of his mother. Initially taking private lessons and later joining a club, Alper quickly showed his talent, making swimming an indispensable part of his life. He remained dedicated to swimming throughout primary and high school, earning numerous medals and trophies in return for his hard work.

11 CONSECUTIVE MEDALS

Alper, who achieved a remarkable series of 11 medals in competitions held in 2023 and 2024, became champion at events such as the Turkey Arena Interclub Long and Short Course Championships, the International Edirne Cup, and the Turkey National Team Selections for Youth, Juniors, and Open Age categories. His accomplishments in sports also paved the way for his education. About a year ago, Alper earned the title of national swimmer and received the National Athlete Scholarship provided by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, allowing him to enroll in the IUE Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation this year.

A CAREER BEFITTING MY NAME

Stating that he trains approximately six hours a day and has a deep passion for swimming, Alper said, “My family loves nature and the sea, which is why they named me Deniz (meaning ‘sea’ in Turkish). I believe I have built a career worthy of my name. My mother started me in swimming at the age of 4 so that I could grow up healthy. I remember the first moments I learned to swim. Swimming is an incredible feeling, and I continued with love and dedication. It has become the center of my life. Even during middle and high school, I maintained my training schedule. Sometimes I worked for two, sometimes three, and sometimes even six hours. I organized my study schedule and daily life accordingly. When you are disciplined, it’s not difficult at all. I was lucky never to have any injuries. Swimming has taught me a lot, like being disciplined, planning well, and maintaining a healthy diet. My passion for swimming even granted me the opportunity to study at university on a full scholarship. I’m so glad that swimming became part of my life.”

I FELT THE MEDAL

Alper expressed his desire to continue winning medals and said, “Although I aimed for championship in Bahrain, I managed to place second. It was an amazing feeling and a fantastic experience for me. When I dive into the water, I focus only on myself and give my best effort. It was the same in Bahrain. But the moment I finished the race, I felt that I had won a medal. I am preparing intensely for the Turkey Short Course Championship in December, aiming to win a medal. Getting into the major I wanted at university also gave me peace of mind. I am currently in the preparatory class. I believe that studying physiotherapy will have a very positive impact on my sports career. I am so grateful to everyone who believes in me.”