That sort of focus would have played its part in his bronze-medal finish at this year’s national titles at Sydney Olympic Park.

“I don’t really look at my opponents because it puts me off and makes me go a little slower,” Agland said.

“I focus on myself and what I’m doing and hopefully get to the wall as fast as I can.”

While the teenager didn’t better his personal best of 30.50 seconds, he still did enough to claim his first-ever medal at national level.

“It was just amazing,” he said.

“When I was slapping the water you’ve got to live those moments because it may not happen again.

“I was very proud of myself when I got onto that podium and represented Port as well.”

Agland’s multi-class success in the under-15 to 16 50-metre butterfly came after a strong performance at the NSW Country Championships earlier in the year.

“(Previously) I got a fourth and nearly beat a 20-year-old at NSW Country Champs,” he said.

“I wanted to try and get a medal at country or nationals, so to get it at nationals is pretty big because it’s something I’ve never done before.”

Agland started the final from lane three and despite being towards the middle of the pool he said he didn’t notice the swimmers in the other lanes alongside him.

His focused effort ensured he finished on the podium although he still believes he can perform better.

“I wouldn’t say it was my best meet in the world,” he said.

“I started out great but didn’t finish on a high like I wanted to, but overall I got a medal so I’m happy with that.”