Allyson Mitchell '16 Recruiting Profile

My swim resume may seem incomplete at this time but I have been swimming competitively since I was 5 years old and have never missed a season. In 2010, I was experiencing severe back pain and was diagnosed with Scoliosis. I completed my season and had Spinal Fusion surgery in March 2011. I was back in the pool within 2 months and competing with my YMCA team within 6 months; achieving top times and advancing to State Championships in 100fly, 200fly and 400im. Although I had had some success, I was unable to perform as expected and became discouraged. I moved to a less competitive team during my Freshman year of High School and chose to compete in dual meets only for my YMCA team. I continued to swim for my HS and was awarded Rookie of the Year as well as my Varsity letter. After Freshman year, I was diagnosed with a condition called Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Along with other side effects and symptoms, I began to experience weight gain. My Sophomore year was not as successful. Last year, my Junior year, I began to focus on my health and on getting back into swim shape. While I was unable to achieve my previous best times, I was able to better my times from previous season. I am continue to swim with my club team and am looking forward to my HS season as a Senior. My heath has improved. I continue to work at staying in shape. I look forward to improving my times and contributing to the success of my college team in the future.