The Freshman’s Guide to Becoming A College Swimmer

Photo Courtesy: UNO Swim & Dive

By Isabelle Robuck, Swimming World College Intern.

With summer right around the corner, college swimmers and divers around the globe are preparing for next season. Nothing feels better than catching up with your friends after three months apart and jumping back into routine!

As the season starts, every team welcomes a new set of athletes to their family – the freshmen. Eager to learn their new routines, freshmen are full of energy, excitement, and – of course – a little bit of fear in the mix. For those scary new moments, we’ve created a freshman’s guide to college swimming to help calm your nerves and enjoy your first year!

1. It’s okay to be scared.

Photo Courtesy: Michael, flickr

It really is okay: There’s a lot to be scared of. Leaving home, being away from your family, starting a new life… It’s a lot to take in. The transition is easier for some than others. No matter what, make sure to keep an open mind. Don’t set expectations for how it’s going to be – allow yourself to enjoy the unknown. Before you know it, you’ll be having the time of your life!

2. Never be afraid to say hello!

Photo Courtesy: Brooke Wright

Being in a new place is a little scary for everyone. You’re starting a completely new journey! However, it’s important to step out of your comfort zone. Make new friends! Say hello to someone you don’t know! Chances are, you’ll make their day a little better just by saying hi. And who knows, you may end up finding a new friend!

3. There is no such thing as a stupid question.

Photo Courtesy: Pexels

Don’t ever be afraid to ask questions. Whether it be about swimming, college, or life in general, seeking help shows that you’re not only willing to learn the team’s culture and traditions but also that you feel comfortable enough to reach out for help.

4. No one is going to do it for you.

mcgee-moody-coach-south-carolina-sec-championships

Photo Courtesy: Thomas Campbell/Texas A&M Athletics

Swimming in hard. College is also hard, but being a freshman doesn’t mean that everyone is going to blame your mistakes on the new name tag. Sure, you may mess up. This is a whole new world of experiences, and it is okay to make mistakes. However, it’s important to learn from those mistakes rather than repeat them!

5. Do your best to stay positive.

Photo Courtesy: Maddie Kyler

This one runs for everyone on the team, not just freshmen. During season, it’s hard to push through practices when there really is no end in sight. Negativity is far more dangerous than we know, especially when we’re exhausted. Focus your thoughts on the positive, and don’t allow negativity to dictate your overall outcome!

6. Every practice can be an opportunity for improvement.

Bangor High School coach Phil Emery works with his swimmers during a practice on Jan. 22, 2003 at Husson College in Bangor. (The Weekly/Linda Coan O'Kresik)

Photo Courtesy: Linda Coan O’Kresik | BDN

You can improve yourself every set, every practice and every race. No one’s perfect, so there is always something to improve upon. Never take your talents for granted, and find a hunger to be better. Stay positive and become the very best athlete you can be!

7. Have fun and remember why you’re there.

Photo Courtesy: UNO Swim & Dive

Being a collegiate swimmer is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! When you find yourself in a rut, it’s important to remember why you chose to swim in college. Everyone on the team has a purpose, so work on finding yours. College can be the best years of your life, so enjoy them for what they are!

8. Cherish every moment.

Photo Courtesy: UNO Swim & Dive

It may not seem like it now, but your time as a college swimmer flies by. Even though it can get repetitive, be thankful for every opportunity you’ve been given. Some days, you can’t wait for the season to be over. On other days, you will miss diving into the freezing water with your best friends.

Freshmen – you will learn so many life skills and make unforgettable memories. Remember to make the most of every situation. Learn and grow, and – most importantly – cherish every moment you get. It’ll be over before you know it!

Commentary: All commentaries are the opinion of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Swimming World Magazine nor its staff.

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Marisabel Moreno

5 years ago

Poder femenino!!!!

Mackenzie Halligan

5 years ago

Dani Hippe famous ❤️

LeAnn Nannie Johnson Carr

5 years ago

Em Carr Armando Flores Flores Connor White Airam Oliva-Aun Miriam Guevara

Elise Pham

5 years ago

Ariel Pham maybe you’ll need it someday lol