- 2019 Highlights
Personal Statement
Throughout my nearly nine years of swimming, I have had many accomplishments. The following are two that stand out. The first is Age Group Zones of 2018 where I placed third in the 50 Butterfly and second in the 100 Fly. My 100 Butterfly time currently holds the Long Course State Record for Iowa in the 13-14 age group. I was pleased to find out that my 50 Fly time was sixth nationally for 13-14 year olds, earning me a USA Swimming National Age Group Award. Going in to my first high school season I was unsure of what to expect; though I knew my goal was to go to state. I was so proud to not only make the podium but to place second in the 100 Butterfly. My sophomore year in high school was an other step forward in my swimming career. With a new head coach starting at my high school this year, I was able to compete in a wider variety of events. This was very exciting to me, to be able to test myself and broaden my talents. As a result, at our District swim meet, I won the 100 fly and 100 back, our 200 medley relay team set a new school record, and I was named District Swimmer of the Year. At the 2020 Iowa High School State Swim Meet, I placed third in the 100 fly with an All-American Consideration time and now hold the seventh fastest time in state history. My additional accomplishments in 2020 included being name Mississippi Athletic Conference Swimmer of the Year, First Team All-State, and Quad Cities Times First Team All-Metro. I'm looking forward to the next two-years as I have goals to beat the current school records in the 100 fly and 100 back. Having those goals continues to drive me to excel.
COVID-19 has lead to new challenges including the cancelation of my high school track season and the delay of the summer club swimming season. Throughout this time I've stuck to a schedule that will keep me in shape for when I am able to get back in the water, and I continue to push myself with my school work to maintain my high academic standard. In addition I've designed lifting and circuit workouts to keep my siblings and cousins engaged and active. I believe being able to adapt to changes and challenges is what sets me apart. In these uncertain times, it would be easy to sit back and take it easy. However, I have my sites set on longer term goals and I know that continuing to push myself physically and mentally will help ensure I am successful in meeting and exceeding those goals.
