Ever since I was younger, going to the pool, ocean, or any other body of water would bring me relief when I found myself in distress. After moving from Utah to Florida, I was completely new to my high school. One day, a girl with a radiant smile on her face asked if I wanted to join swimming. Although this was something I had never done before, I thought I could give it a try. Joining a brand new sport was hard to adjust to.
Nevertheless, as practices would come and go, I noticed I was moving up from the "beginner lanes.” I fell in love with swimming, and it became the top priority in my life. I realized I had found my passion. From the second I dove in, I knew that I wanted swimming to be a part of my life in the future. Now I'm a senior, and I still have that same passion. Even though I joined "late," I have looked for opportunities to improve. Last spring, I joined a club team, the Stone Crabs. Thanks to the help and guidance of Coach Ann, I have progressed and hope to pursue my dream of swimming at the collegiate level and studying sports medicine or exercise science.
I have learned that putting in hard work and dedication pays off when hitting the touchpad, turning around, and seeing a “first place” on the board. Swimming has shown me to expand outside of my usual comfort zone. It has helped me to develop and open up to new opportunities. Furthermore, swimming has taught me to be resilient. As a swimmer, I might not always get that first place. However, after each event, I reflect and devise ways to decrease my timing and become stronger than I was before that particular event. I swim the 50 Free, 100 Free, and 100 Breast. I am confident, I am dependable, and I always have an uplifting team spirit. Thank you for considering me to be a part of your team.