Tristan Vessel '22 Recruiting Profile

I would describe my journey as a swimmer as miraculous and daunting simultaneously. I have overcome challenges that most of my teammates have never experienced and don't understand. I started competing at age 11 and was labeled a ''late swimmer'' by coaches and teammates. I struggled to identify with my teammates and fought against criticism from peers and some family members who advised me that competitive swimming was not a sport for African Americans and that I should try football or track instead.

I believe that as an Afro-Latino swimmer I have a duty and obligation to exhibit diversity and talent in this sport. I want to represent those swimmers who have been historically underrepresented or dismissed in traditional settings.

I aspire to be the best student-athlete I can be. I want to proudly represent and perform for my team with unparalleled enthusiasm, drive, and effort. As a collegiate athlete, I will be challenged to perform at an advanced level, as such I will hold myself to a higher standard in all areas. I want to be a college swimmer because this sport has changed the trajectory of my life, and motivated me to succeed.