Despite personal challenges affecting his training, APU swimmer Shermann Choong Li Sheng secured one Silver and two Bronze medals at the Varsity Games 2025, significantly improving his medal count from 2024.

Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) is celebrating the outstanding performance of student Shermann Choong Li Sheng at the recent Varsity Games 2025.

Competing in the pool at the Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) Kuala Lumpur campus, Shermann, a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science with a Specialism in Data Analytics student, brought home an impressive haul of three medals for APU. 

Shermann secured a Bronze in the 50m Butterfly, another Bronze in the 100m Butterfly, and a well-deserved Silver in the challenging 200m Butterfly event.

This was not Shermann’s first foray into the Varsity Games; he also participated in the 2024 edition, where he clinched a silver medal in the 100m Butterfly.

Building on his previous performance, Shermann significantly increased his medal haul this year. 

In 2024, he secured a Silver in the 100m Butterfly, placed 4th in the 200m Butterfly, and 5th in the 50m Butterfly.

His 2025 results show a marked improvement, particularly in the 50m and 200m Butterfly events where he moved from unplaced to earning Bronze and Silver respectively, alongside his Bronze in the 100m Butterfly. 

Reflecting on his recent performance, Shermann shared, “To be honest, I was not expecting to perform well this time because I had missed over two weeks of training following the passing of my grandmother. Despite that, I gave it my best and focused on swimming for a strong finish.”

Beyond the personal challenge, Shermann highlighted the camaraderie of the event.

 “Another meaningful part of the experience was meeting many new friends, especially younger swimmers who are just stepping into university-level competitions. It reminded me of how sports can bring people together.” 

When asked if he enjoyed the competition, he responded with enthusiasm, “Yes, I genuinely enjoyed the competition. I had a great time getting to know new people, chatting during warm-downs, and sharing the experience of competing together. These moments made the event even more memorable.” 

While personal expectations were tempered, Shermann’s focus remained firmly on his university. 

“My main goal was to win as many medals as I could for APU. Even if I did not see much added value in terms of personal growth this time, contributing to my university’s success is something that I take pride in and that in itself adds value to me.” 

Looking ahead, Shermann has clear plans for future competitions.

 “I plan to compete in the second leg of this Varsity Games series, as well as other upcoming club competitions. I am looking forward to improving further and continuing to represent my university.” 

Shermann’s dedication and success truly embody the spirit of student excellence at APU, demonstrating that even amidst personal challenges, commitment to one’s team and university can lead to remarkable achievements.