It was the summer of 2006 when she competed for the first time. Her coach, who became part of her inner circle of adults, encouraged her in a way that spoke to her. This woman knew when to mother her, when to yell because she was not swimming her best, and when to softly speak the words, "I'm disappointed." That same summer she qualified for the state meet in her two chosen events but more importantly, it ignited a passion that burns to this day.
Since then, barring a shoulder injury that kept her out of the pool for a month, she has swam year round. There have been hundreds and hundreds of miles driven hither and yon to meets where she would wait patiently for her time to race. School work has been managed, social engagements declined, and sleep overs put on hold so she could perfect her craft.
I am happy to say she'll be attending the Senior State Meet this coming weekend. Her knee suit has been ordered, hotel reservations made, and the team dinner scheduled.
All her hard work will be put to the test alongside other fast swimmers. Regardless of the outcome, fastest swims or not, I am so proud of her. We will have made memories.
No comments:
Post a Comment