Michael Smerlick '17 Recruiting Profile

Unlike many swimmers, I began swimming at the age of 14. I started swimming for my local YMCA team Sky Tempest in 2012 and started swimming competitively. I then met our local high school coach,  Ned Hampford . Coach Hampford also coached at the collegiate level in Division II for Bloomsburg University.  Over the first two years my times have dropped dramatically and Coach has inspired me to continue the hard work. Coach has inspired me also to compete at the collegiate level. My love, desire, and drive to compete at the next level continues to grow.  

I am very coachable and love to compete. I give 100% in everything that I do in my life, which includes my education as well as swimming. I enjoy helping underclassmen as they begin their journey into swimming competitively. I am confident, but not self centered. I am a team player. My technique has improved over the past three years, and I continue to learn more and implement new strategies everyday.  I am able to take constructive criticism, and follow through with what I am advised to correct.

I  joined Parkland Aquatic Club in the spring of 2016 to compliment my upcoming senior season.

Education is my number one priority. I desire to lead in the classroom as well as the swimming pool. I work hard to maintain a high GPA.  I often offer tutoring to classmates who are struggling. When time allows, I volunteer in my local community to help feed the hungry, with a local church group. I also assist in my high school guidance office. In the summer along with competing for my local swim team, I work as a lifeguard.

I desire to find a college to complement my abilities in the classroom and the pool. I want to be an asset to the college that I attend. I am hoping that I am able to attend a college that feels I can positively represent them academically and athletically.