Elena Sandifer '25 Recruiting Profile

I found swimming later than most students who want to be college athletes. Although I have only been a swimmer for seven years, I believe I have a deeper appreciation for the sport than many other competitors. Last year I fractured my tibial growth plate and disconnected my ACL in a skiing accident. After surgery and six months of physical therapy, I was finally back in the pool, and I had to fight to regain my stamina and speed. During this time, I learned how much swimming means to me, how important it is in my life, and how much I am willing to work for my sport.

Aside from my willingness to work, I am a great teammate. I was named captain of my club team my junior year, and I’m the biggest cheerleader for my team. You can find me at the end of the lane cheering for the other swimmers, and I swim on the weekends with one of the middle school swimmers who is looking to push herself.

In college, I hope to improve my times and get stronger with a more in depth strength and conditioning program. Academically, I plan to study secondary education with an emphasis in history. I would love to be able to come back to my high school and teach with some of the history instructors who have had such an impact on my life. And, who knows maybe you will still find me at the end of the lane cheering for my swimmers as an assistant coach at my old swim team!