Miles Simon is Breaking Boundaries As A Howard University Swimmer

Miles Simon is Breaking Boundaries As A Howard University Swimmer

Miles Simon is a junior at Howard University in Washington, DC. Just recently, he became the school’s second United States Olympic Trials qualifier, earning the opportunity to contest the 50-meter freestyle in Omaha. Despite breaking stereotypes as an African-American swimmer, he is one of the few qualified for Trials. With an extra year of preparation provided by the COVID-19 pandemic, Simon was able to accomplish much more in his swim career than before.

“This year was hard,” Simon said in an interview with Swimming World. “People do not realize the challenges I faced with being home and trying to have the ability to compete.”

Photo Courtesy: Miles Simon

Unlike many other Division I schools, Howard swimmers never matriculated to the HBCU campus for the fall or spring semester. Nevertheless, Simon was able to accomplish a great deal at home through persistence and patience.

“In Atlanta, I did not have the lane space or a club to go to,” Simon said. “I went to stay with my former coach, and despite the challenge of not knowing when I (would) swim that week, I gave my all…It was mentally challenging this year. I learned more about myself than ever. At times I had to be my coach, cheerleader, and athlete. Taking on so many positions while trying to improve was difficult. However, I am glad I did because it made me stronger and it prepared me for the future.”

Simon has taken on major responsibility within the sport. He would send videos to his coach at Howard for review and technical critiques. While it was an atypical relationship, Simon benefited from the assistance. What was most impressive is that the event he qualified for at Olympic Trials, the 50 free, is not what he typically swims. But due to the pandemic complications, he focused primarily on freestyle, as opposed to the 200 IM.

“I chose to focus on freestyle to improve my stroke, but it was also easier because I didn’t have the resources some have at clubs,” Simon said. “The (freestyle) stroke is easier to fix, and I focused more on my power and generating it. I am glad to improve in the event that is not my specialty.

Simon spoke about how growing up in the swimming community, there is not much African-American representation, especially in Georgia. But attending Howard University and building a community for minority swimmers helped him become his best.

“It’s different when your coach looks like you and can empathize with you,” Simon said. “I understand that each swimmer chooses their schools on their own merits, but Howard University has provided me the encouragement and representation that other clubs and schools lack.

“It has not affected me that I made the Olympic Trials cut. It will not hit me until after the meet. I am glad for the opportunity, and also I am glad to be an encouragement to other swimmers I know and ones I will meet later on.”

Simon is glad that he chose to swim. From breaking boundaries and encouraging people in his community he will continue to inspire others. He hopes to continue swimming beyond college and continue being an inspiration to other African-American swimmers.

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A turner

2 years ago

So very proud of you Miles. Go for it all??‍♀️??‍♀️??‍♀️‼️ ??Praying for you.

Anonymous

2 years ago

Bravo and congratulations Miles! You are an inspiration and ceiling breaker. As with your HU peers and those who came before you, continue accomplishing great exploits. I know that’s how it’s done at the historic Howard University. May God’s blessings and favor take you far.

Toikus Z. Westbrook, M.D.

2 years ago

I am so proud of your resilience! Go Bison Go!

Anonymous

2 years ago

Go young HU Bison, good luck! The Herd is with you!

Florence Jabedo

2 years ago

Wow Wow kudos to your determination to accomplish this great milestone! Will be cheering you on! Best of luck Miles???

Florence Jabedo

2 years ago

Kudos to your determination to accomplish this great milestone! Will be cheering you on! Best??

Kenya Simon

2 years ago

We’re all so proud of you but not surprised, I knew this day would happen! Love you son!