Through Appendix Surgery and Working Full Time, Michael Houlie is Still Looking to LA2028

Michael Houlie has had a whirlwind 2025. Right before he was set to compete at the 2025 World University Games, he had to get emergency surgery to remove his appendix. This also meant he had to take 10 weeks out of the water and ease his way back into training, something he was not used to at all. But through the slower pace, Houlie has managed to find joy.

In order to pay his bills, the South African is now employed at his alma mater, working as the events manager at the Allan Jones pool, where he also trains. Houlie says that though it is time-consuming and hard, he has enjoyed the balance of work and training. Racing at the US Open, Houlie took a win in the 50 breast, touching in 26.72