From Poland to Paradise; Ostrowski Ready To Represent Hawai‘i At NCAA Championships

HONOLULU — Karol Ostrowski came to the United States barely speaking English, with nothing but a dream and determination. Now, he’s one of Hawai’i’s fastest swimmers—and an Olympian—showing that sometimes being an outsider is the best way to find your place.

Originally from Poland, Ostrowski discovered swimming at 14. By 16, he realized his talent could take him across the Atlantic. “It was a dream to go to America,” he said. “I started swimming when I was 14, and around 16 I realized I could go to the U.S. Some schools were reaching out to me, and when I saw this opportunity, I thought, ‘I have to do this.’” He arrived in America knowing only how to introduce himself. 

“I didn’t know English at all. I remember someone asked me how tall I was, and I said, ‘Yes.’ That was it,” he laughed. “After three months, I woke up one day and realized I could speak it. That helped me the most—it made me more confident in swimming and in life.”

Ostrowski started his college career at Drury University after his initial plan to join Florida State fell through. While at Drury, he excelled, capturing multiple individual NCAA Division II titles and holding a spot on the Polish Olympic team for the 2020 Tokyo Games. But after visiting the islands for a winter camp with Drury, Hawai’i stole his heart. 

“The first time I came here for a winter camp, I felt the love in this place,” he said. “It’s so beautiful. I thought, if I ever have a chance to transfer here, I have to do it. I love the vibes, the weather, the energy—everything.”

Since transferring, Ostrowski has left a lasting mark on the program. He has shattered multiple UH records, including the 50- and 100-yard freestyles and the 200-yard free relay, and earned All-Big West honors across multiple events. 

“It feels amazing,” he said. “I love the fact that my name is on the board. Every time I go into a race, I try to stay chill and just enjoy it. That’s helped me achieve my best times.”

Now a senior, Ostrowski is preparing for the NCAA Championships at Georgia Tech's McAuley Aquatic Center in Atlanta and keeping his focus on the process rather than expectations. He will make his third appearance at the NCAA Division I Championships, beginning Friday with the 100 back and 50 free, before concluding his collegiate career with the 100 free on Saturday. 

“Last two years, I put too many goals in my head, and when I didn’t meet them, I got frustrated,” he said. “This year, I have no expectations. I just want to have fun, swim with the water—not against it—and see what happens.”

Ostrowski’s approach shows the confidence he’s built over years of competing on the international stage and breaking records at UH. “I just want to focus on what I can control, enjoy the experience, and let the results come,” he said.

Looking ahead, Ostrowski plans to continue his swimming career professionally while pursuing other ambitions, including a pilot’s license. “After graduation, I hope to start my career as a pro athlete. My goal is to qualify for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. If I make a final there, I’ll be proud and probably swim for a couple more years.”

With his final season complete, all that’s left for Ostrowski is the NCAAs. He’s found his place — in the pool and in Hawai’i.