Athena Pantoja '21 Recruiting Profile

When I started swimming competitively I knew that I wanted to be at the top of my game. However, swimming became more than just competing with others like myself. Swimming forced me to look at the moments and opportunities I had missed. I learned through swimming that I can be a motivator for those who can't see their potential, and I can be a leader for those who are struggling to understand their craft. Swimming has taught my team and I the importance of trust, faith, and acceptance. My team was there for each and everyone of us and especially for me at my darkest moments. In my sophomore year of high school I had experienced an injury that caused me to sit out the rest of my swim season. That singular injury changed my life, but it was my swim team that helped me see what love and persistence could do for me in a time like that. 

I will always remember that my team assisted me when I had lost faith in my sport. I will never forget that even though I couldn't swim with them, they encouraged me to teach them how to perfect their strokes and to believe in them when I couldn't believe in myself. I owe everything to my coaches, my team mates, and my family. Their love and support molded me to appreciate what I have and where I came from. In the beginning of my career I was only interested in winning. However, my purpose in swimming now is to be persistent when life gets rocky and to help motivate and lead others to their goals, just like my team did for me. 

"Athena is a great swimmer with a lot of potential to do fantastic things. She is very competitive and she works hard on her strokes and times to keep her on top. She listens to her coach's and treats them with respect. She helps her teammates whenever they ask. I would highly recommend Athena as a scholarship  candidate." ~Vivian Plats, YMCA Swim Official and Trainer

"Athena is one of the hardest working swimmers I have ever coached. Not only is she an amazing swimmer, but she also is a great student. Athena works hard, listens, and most importantly, helps lead other swimmers in and out of the pool." ~ Michael Diamond, Chiropractor, Assistant Coach at Baldwin Wallace University Swimming and Diving 

"What made Athena a leader on my team was her ability to push forward and succeed no matter what obstacle she faced. Her strength is what lifts everyone's spirit. Her ability to excel is inspiring and motivating." ~ Coach Moses Smith, Coach for Lakeside High School for Track and Cross Country