Ashley Hintz '21 Recruiting Profile

My parents always tell me a story from when I was two years old; I jumped into the pool following my older sister, giving them heart attacks. My aunt always tells me that when she would splash water on my face when I was a baby, I would hysterically laugh. Even as an infant, I loved the water. As soon as I came of age to start swim lessons, I begged my mom to sign me up. I started competitive swimming for my local team once I graduated lessons. At my very first dual meet,  I broke the team record in the 50 Fly. I believe on that day, at 8 years old, my passion for competitive swimming was born. 

As my love for swimming grew, so did my intensity of training. I found myself constantly trying to push my body to the maximum it could take. This hard work paid off and led me to breaking all but one of my local team’s 11-12 records. Thus, I became a conference champion in all of my events. From there, I decided to take the next step and join a USA swimming club team. Palatine Park District Tigersharks (PPD)  truly felt like home and has brought my athletic capability to places I never thought it could go. I have qualified for age group state, zones championships, and have finaled in senior state championships. I started my highschool season as a freshman at the varsity level, qualified for sectionals, and obtained the 100 free school record. I was a key contributor to earning points for our team. As I grow, I am continuously trying to find the next step to enhance my training and improve as a swimmer. 

Not only has swimming taught me discipline and the effects of work ethic, but it has also taught me how to apply myself when need be. From swimming, I have learned that persistence is key, hard work always pays off, and the immense support a team can bring. I use these life lessons on a daily basis. In school, I find myself motivated to exceed expectations. If I get a grade I’m not happy with, I persist to get the best grade possible and call on my peers for help, just like a team. Although swimming is commonly perceived as an individual sport, there is a team aspect that I have grown to rely on.  With this, being a part of a team has changed my life. I have grown to love my sport with people who will turn into lifelong friends. I have been asked to coach the entry level swimmers for PPD. Therefore, I see every perspective of the sport and I am a better person because of it. Because of my team, the pool has become my second home.  

Upon reflection, after my high school swim season sophomore year, I had an invigorated focus and commitment to the heart and drive of training. This increased level of excitement resulted in an exceptional season with significant time drops. Hopeful for more improvements on the way, I am enthusiastic to see where my swimming takes me. 

In conclusion, I feel as though swimming has become a part of who I define myself to be. I seek for a program that creates opportunities for me to grow and to challenge me academically as well as athletically. With my leadership, grit, and dedication, I believe I would be a valuable member of your team. Among all of this, my passion has never wavered and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for me as a collegiate athlete.