It Takes a Village: How Kokoro Frost Swims with the Spirit of Samoa
From Ōtaki to the global stage, Kokoro Frost is redefining what it means to swim with purpose. Representing Samoa in international competitions, his story blends cultural pride, elite training, and relentless drive.
- Kokoro, can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to start swimming?
Tālofa lava! My name is Kokoro Frost and I am a competitive swimmer, representing Samoa on the international stage. I have been swimming at international level for more than five years now and was first inspired by Michael Phelps at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
- How has your upbringing in Ōtaki influenced your swimming journey, and what role has your community played in your success?
Ōtaki is my home. I’ve been so blessed to have such a beautiful community that supports me in my sport and is so encouraging. They definitely make everything worth it.
- What does it mean to represent Samoa on the international stage, and how do you feel about being part of the Samoan national team?
Representing Samoa on the international stage is something that I’m so incredibly fortunate to do. Being able to represent my family and my people is what is most special.
- Swimming can be a tough sport with rigorous training. What keeps you motivated to push through the challenges?
I am in love with my sport now more than ever. One of the main reasons for this is that I have found the right balance between my training and recovery.
- Can you walk us through your typical training routine leading up to major competitions like World Championships, Commonwealth Games, or Oceania Swimming Championships?
We tend to work in training cycles. These range depending on the amount of work we need to get from A to B. For example, my last World Championships campaign in December was a 16-week cycle consisting of five swim sessions and three gym sessions.
- What are some of the key aspects of your training that you believe have helped you improve your performance over the years?
Definitely the importance of rest, recovery, and nutrition has been a game-changer.
- How do you balance your mental and physical health while preparing for high-level competitions?
I always remind myself of the people I am doing this for. The Samoan culture is enriched by acts of service, and I believe I am able to serve my family, community and nation through my sport. Grounding myself and reminding myself of this always helps mentally, which then extends to the physical barriers we need to push through in order to succeed!
- What was it like competing in the 2022 Commonwealth Games and what was one of your most memorable moments there?
One of the most memorable moments was walking out at the opening ceremony. Being able to profoundly wave the Samoan flag with my people; that was something I’ll never forget.
- At the Oceania Swimming Championships, you showcased some incredible performances. Can you share some highlights from that competition?
At the 2024 Oceania Swimming Championships, I was able to win my first-ever individual medal for Samoa in the 50m Backstroke. This is something that I hold near and dear to my heart and, again, ties back to that theme of service to the people I’m doing this for. I wouldn’t be in the position I am today without them.
- How did it feel to contribute to Samoa's overall performance at the Pacific Games 2023?
Similar to above, I won my first-ever international medal at the 2023 Pacific Games: silver in the 4x100 Men’s Freestyle Relay. It was one of Samoa’s first medals on the first day of competition.
- You’ve achieved so much at a young age. What does it mean for you to have this success early in your career?
It means a lot. The quote, “It takes a village to raise a child,” rings true. I’m so grateful for my “village” and all they’ve done to get me to where I am today.
At Luna, we champion stories like his—where tech meets tenacity. Because performance isn’t just physical—it’s everything you do to stay strong, grounded, and ready.