Tess's passion for swimming took root during her ninth grade. "As a kid with two very athletic sisters, I was brought up playing different sports, which I loved," she said. Her older sister Erin has represented New Zealand in tennis, while Tara played volleyball for the University of the Cumberlands.

Competitive Debut and Achievements

Tess made her debut for Canada in 2014. Over the years, she has earned several accolades, including sharing Swimming Canada's Paralympic Program Female Swimmer of the Year award for 2023 with Danielle Dorris. She has also been named Para Swimmer of the Year twice by Swim Ontario.

Challenges and Comeback

In June 2021, Tess sustained a back injury when a weight bar fell on her. This incident forced her to miss the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo. However, she made a strong comeback in April 2022. "My sisters were the biggest supporters; they had to be my nurses for six weeks," she said.

Family Influence and Personal Rituals

Tess credits her parents as significant influences in her life. She also has a unique pre-race ritual of cracking her knuckles. Her family moved from New Zealand to Canada when she was just six months old, providing her with a diverse cultural background.

Ambitions and Future Plans

Looking ahead, Tess aims to compete at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. "I can't wait. I was never hungrier than to qualify for Paris," she stated. Her determination is evident as she prepares for this significant milestone in her career.

Media Appearances and Representation

In 2022, Tess appeared in Coldplay's music video for the song 'Biutyful' alongside fellow Canadian Para swimmer Danielle Kisser. The video aimed to highlight Paralympic representation. "It's about getting Paralympic faces out there," Tess explained.

Tess's journey from New Zealand to Canada, coupled with her family's support and personal resilience, has shaped her into an accomplished athlete. As she sets her sights on Paris 2024, her story continues to inspire many in the sporting community.