Page 30 - Highlights 2022

Dear Swim

by Katie Pollock '25

Dear Swim,

The first time we met
I did not know how to feel

As little 7-year-old me slipped on my cap and goggles,
I was terrified.
As I held my nose and jumped in,

You embraced me like a warm hug
Back and forth

Wall to wall
I couldn’t get the excitement you gave me to go away

Nor did I want it to.
You gave me friends to last a lifetime,

Teammates as people like to call them,
Who cheered me on through what felt like your impossible races?
The 100-meter IM and 200-meter freestyle felt terrible on my muscles,

But I knew with all the strength you gave me
I could do it.

Each time the official said, “Swimmers take your mark”
I anxiously waited for the loud “beep” that gave me so much satisfaction.
When my fingers touched the water,

I knew I was at home.
You gave me a goal to strive for

A glorious gold medal prize waiting at the end,
I stop at nothing.

Love endlessly,

Katie

30