Because this is an independent sport, athletes have their choice of where to train. As a coach I know how lucky I am to have an athlete like Rebekah choose to swim at our program. It amazing what can happen when an athlete sees what the coach sees. They start believing in their their potential and takes ownership of their success. This season Rebekah set three big goals --making states, making her sectional cut and make finals at senior champs-- and she took ownership of the steps to reach them. It truly takes a dedicated athlete to achieve what she has achieved. We have been through plateaus, anger, happiness and tears. I have watched her grow from a young swimmer to a committed athlete that trains, and truly believes she can achieve her goals. It isn't always easy but it is always worth it. It is very unusual that any individual athlete achieves three large goals in any season. I am so proud of her- for believing in her coaches and believing in herself.
...of a greater appreciation of self and the world around me