Nicole Sasso '20 Recruiting Profile

No one else in my family had ever been involved in the sport of swimming before me.  Like many other families, my mother had me put in swim lessons when I was younger for safety.  However, I saw the sport as something more.  I always loved being in the pool, and never complained about going to a lesson.  As soon as I was old enough, one of my private instructors recommended me for the swim team.  This was definitely not a path my mom had intended by signing me up for lessons, but she was completely supportive of the idea.  This same passion has stuck with me ever since because I love being in the water. 

Through swimming I have learned a lot about myself.  Not only is it something I have always had a strong passion for, but it has also helped give me confidence, and taught me discipline, perseverance, and dedication.  As a freshman on my high school team, I was put in center lanes and top relays.  This helped teach me to rise to the occasion since I had teammates counting on me.  I grew to compete well under pressure.  When you are on a team or a part of a relay, it is not just about you, but your whole team.  It is important to trust and support each other in order to succeed.

In addition to having amazing teammates, I also have been extremely lucky to have parents who encourage me to always work hard and do my best.  Both of my parents have greatly influenced who I am.  I have never specifically experienced a true hardship, but I have seen my mom face her battle with cancer.  Her fight against breast cancer taught me to always be positive. Positivity can go such a long way and a good mindset will make hard situations easier.  I use this positive mind set with swimming.  Believing in yourself before stepping up to the block is half the battle. Her ability to still be there for me while facing this disease showed me the importance of  mental toughness and a hard work ethic.

My grades have always been a top priority for me.  I know because of my dad that sacrifices are necessary in order to succeed. My goals going forward are to continue to maintain academic honors and a high GPA.  This year I was also named an archdiocesan scholar.  I am interested mainly in science and computers but I have a love for all subjects and am always open to trying new classes. 

I look forward to continuing the sport I love as a part of my college experience.