This year my oldest daughter, Taylor, decided that she wanted to try out for the swim team. This was a shocker because she hasn't really swam since the first year we moved back to Utah in 2001. She's always enjoyed swimming and even did some laps this summer in the pool at grandma and grandpa for a little extra cash.
They've had about 5 meets thus far and Taylor usually swims the 50 and 100 free and the freestyle relay sometimes.
She swims well, has a nice stroke and kick. However, she has yet to master the flip turn (I can't even describe how she does it, it's just something one has to see) and doesn't like to jump too far off the board.
With that said, I've never been prouder of her than I am for her effort and willingness to put herself on the line like she has each meet. Sitting in the stands, it's very difficult for this father not to shout encouragement as Taylor swims her laps. When I ask her what her time was the standard reply is, "I don't know. Didn't ask." And you know what? I'm ok with that too.
She's swimming for a purpose and whatever that purpose is she is definitely having fun and enjoys the time in the pool and with her teammates.
Going to these meets sure sent memories flooding to my mind of all the early morning travels to get to the pool for 1 day of competition. (Most of the meets were Sat/Sun meets) I remember all the long, cold days in the pool, before and after school. All the towel fights, Big Hunts and Reece's eaten (for nutrition of course) and even hosting the Mexican National Team for a swim meet with two of their swimmers staying at our home.
Those memories are awesome and I hope Taylor is developing those same kinds of memories as she embarks on her own swimming journey.
