Rolly: A Journey of Passion and Dedication
Rolly: A Journey of Passion and Dedication
🌊💙 From the tech world to the deep blue, Rolly Ben is proving that limits exist only to be broken. As an IT professional and freediving instructor, he balances high-pressure projects with the tranquility of the ocean. But his journey hasn’t been without sacrifices.
In this exclusive interview, Rolly shares the highs, the struggles, and the mindset that keeps him diving deeper. From breaking records to honoring his late loved ones with every dive, his story is one of passion, resilience, and inspiration.
Let’s dive in! 🤿✨
Genesis
Rolly Ben is a man of dual passions—technology and the ocean. As an IT professional, he leads teams, manages significant projects, and ensures compliance with software development standards. But outside of work, he dives into an entirely different world as a freediving instructor, guiding others into the depths he calls home.
The Call of the Deep
"What motivates me to excel and stay engaged in the sport is a combination of passion, personal growth, and the sense of community it fosters," Rolly shares. The thrill of improvement keeps him committed, and the camaraderie of fellow athletes fuels his drive. Freediving is more than just a sport for him; it's a continuous journey of self-discovery and connection.
When he’s not in the water, Rolly finds balance in other pursuits—hitting the gym, indulging in food trips, and caring for his three dogs. These activities complement his freediving journey, providing both physical conditioning and emotional grounding.
The Sacrifices of a Dedicated Athlete
Commitment to freediving comes with its sacrifices. "I've made significant sacrifices in both time and money," he admits. Training consumes weekends and evenings, often at the expense of social activities. Financially, the costs of courses, equipment, and travel add up. But for Rolly, the rewards—personal growth and fulfillment—far outweigh the sacrifices.
Every athlete faces struggles, and Rolly is no exception. In moments of difficulty, he found strength in the support of his fellow freedivers. "I leaned on my friends, and I used freediving as a form of therapy to connect with my emotions and clear my mind," he reflects. In honoring the memories of loved ones, he found renewed purpose in his passion.
The Power of Recognition
One of Rolly’s most memorable moments in freediving came when his trainers and fellow athletes called him an "elite" freediver. "Even though I don’t fully believe I deserve that title, it served as a powerful motivator," he says. The recognition pushed him to train harder and prove to himself that he could rise to the expectations others had for him.
Breaking Records, Breaking Limits
For Rolly, breaking a personal record is an electrifying experience. "There’s a rush of adrenaline and joy that comes with achieving something I've worked so hard for," he shares. It’s a validation of the time and effort he’s invested, a reminder that perseverance pays off. And when those records extend to national achievements, the feeling is even more profound—knowing that his success contributes to the growth of the sport itself.
Lessons from the Deep
Rolly's freediving journey has taught him invaluable lessons about resilience. "I was sickly and not considered athletic," he reveals. Yet through perseverance, he learned that mindset and commitment matter more than natural ability. "Each accomplishment, no matter how small, reinforces the idea that I am capable of much more than I ever thought possible." His story is one of transformation, proving that the greatest limitations are often self-imposed.
His ultimate goal in the sport is clear: "I want to inspire others, especially those who may feel limited by their circumstances, just as I once did." He hopes to create a ripple effect, showing that passion and dedication can overcome any obstacle. Beyond personal achievements, Rolly aims to foster a community where every freediver believes in their own potential.
Returning to the National Team
As a second-time national team member, Rolly embraces his role with pride. "There's a unique sense of camaraderie in returning," he says. This time, he also sees himself as a mentor, guiding first-timers through their journey. "It’s fulfilling to help them navigate their own challenges. Watching them grow brings me joy, and I love being part of their journey."
Representing his country is both an honor and a responsibility. "You’re not just competing for yourself; you're competing for your teammates, coaches, and supporters back home," he says. The weight of the flag on his shoulders pushes him to train harder, ensuring he gives his best not just for personal pride, but for everyone cheering him on.
The Final Moments Before a Dive
As competition day nears, Rolly’s mindset is clear: trust the process and enjoy the moment. "I remind myself why I love freediving—it's about the joy of being in the water and connecting with nature," he shares. Standing seconds away from his dive, his gratitude takes over. "No matter what happens, I hope to make my supporters proud." When the dive begins, his inner voice takes over, guiding him through every breath and movement.
Honoring Those Who Came Before
Rolly’s journey is deeply personal. If given the chance, he would dedicate every dive to his late father and grandparents. "I hope you know that every moment of hard work and dedication I put in is for you," he reflects. Their love and teachings fuel his drive, reminding him that his effort is a testament to their influence.
Words for the Future
To those starting their journey, Rolly offers simple but powerful advice: "Every achievement, no matter how minor, holds value when it reflects your dedication and hard work." He urges athletes to embrace their progress, cherish their beginnings, and never lose sight of their passion.
A Legacy of Resilience
At the core of his journey, Rolly hopes to leave behind a legacy of resilience. "Growing up feeling sickly and not particularly athletic has taught me that anything is possible with perseverance and hard work," he says. He wants his story to inspire others to push past their limitations and believe in themselves, proving that the impossible is always within reach.
Support and Sponsorship
As these athletes prepare to represent the Philippines on the world stage, they need our support more than ever. Let's come together as a community to cheer on the AIDA PH Team as they showcase their skills and passion for freediving. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the sport, your encouragement can make a world of difference to these dedicated athletes.