I was convinced to join by an acquaintance who would end up the captain for my first season. Though it was incredibly nerve-wracking at first as I had never done a sport before and I was the only beginner, I was incredibly grateful to have been encouraged to join. My team was filled with the kindest and most accepting group of girls I have ever met. Everyone welcomed me with open arms and treated me as if I had known them for years prior. My team and my coaches believed in me so much; more than I even believed in myself sometimes. Even though I had no experience swimming, they treated me just the same as any other, even though most had been swimming since childhood. The captain my junior year taught me so much. Not just about swimming, but about leadership, and how to be there for your team. She also helped me academically and has been there for me for so much, from starting a new sport from scratch, to helping me study for AP exams and giving me advice on college. I never would’ve gained one of my best friends if it weren’t for joining this team when I did. For my senior season, I was voted almost unanimously to be a captain, though I did not learn just how many teammates had voted for me until my coach mentioned it at our end of season banquet. I got to lead another spectacular group of girls and knew they trusted me in a way not many else did. My time on the team taught me not just how to swim competitively, but also valuable leadership skills and the importance of trying new things. I truly believe that I would not be as confident in myself and what I am capable of if I had not been convinced to give swimming a try. My coaches both agreed that my two seasons were the most connected and supportive they had seen the girls team in their years coaching for my high school. I got to swim with a group of girls that were so incredible, both as athletes and people. I gained a large group of friends that I know will last for many years down the road. I have never found community in a group of people like I did in my team. Swimming has become such a large part of my life. The minute I get into the water and push off the wall, my brain falls silent and it feels as though I was meant to do this all along. I will always wish that I got into this sport many years earlier so that I could've enjoyed it for longer.