Nina Martinez '21 Recruiting Profile

My name is Nina Martinez, I am the third of five children. I am a homeschool Senior. I started swimming at five years old. At age 7, I joined the Chicago park district, Mann Park Marlins swim team. This is when my love of water started to grow.

I was introduced to water polo my freshman year of high school. Because of my competitive experience, my coach placed me on the varsity team. I have been on the varsity swim and water polo teams since freshman year. Last season I was promoted to swim team co-captain. I have also participated in the City’s Jr. Lifeguard Program which enabled me to swim in the waters of Lake Michigan.

My best swim strokes are the 200 IM and 100 backstroke, I also swim the 100 butterfly.  In 2019, I competed in the swim city and state sectionals.  My best position in water polo is left wing defender.

I always take my sports and academics seriously.  In the sixth grade I realized I had a learning challenge. It was revealed that I had dyslexia. I thought this would prevent me from going to college. It upset me to know this about myself, instead of giving up, I have pushed myself to read everything. My parents purchased special dyslexia activity books as well.  I’ve been able to deal with it and i am working through it. I am learning that every challenge is an opportunity. As I continue my education, I will continue to work hard to graduate. 

I am seeking to advance my educational opportunities by studying Kinesiology, Exercise Science or Sports medicine. I would like an opportunity to compete in Water Polo at the collegiate level. I am looking for a school environment that would embrace and help me to overcome dyslexia.