Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Athletics

As a freshman coming to Saint Mary’s from a big high school, I didn’t think I was going to be able to swim. Mainly because I didn't understand what D3 meant. Fortunately, I had a fantastic captain who tracked me down and convinced me to swim. I thankfully had a series of good captains that taught me how to be a productive leader and a good person. This year, I have tried to emulate them to the best of my ability. Swimming at SMU has been such a big part of my life, and through it I have met some of best friends.
    
Coach: Remember that time I beat you at TriviaCrack? Yea me too. Thank you for putting up with Anne and I (even though I know you’re going to miss us and Bruce). I always felt like I could come talk to you with any problem big or small, and I think thats why the swim team is the way it is. You sincerely care about all of your swimmers, and you take time out of your day to sit and talk to us. Don’t think we don’t appreciate that. You’ve taught us to take care of our problems and how to take responsibility for ourselves. I never felt like you were talking down to me, and you made me want to act like and be an adult. Thank you for being such a role model, and for never making me swim anything more than a 200 in a meet.
    
Jimmy: I think you are one of the first people I met as a freshman! We’ve been through a lot together, kid, and its been a lot of fun. I can’t wait to watch you walk across that stage at graduation (literally, the only reason I’m going). I hope post-SMU life goes well for you, and I honestly wish you all the success. There has never been a dull moment being your friend. Don't forget to always ask yourself WHY ARE WE HERE?
    
Anne: Bruce. Dot. Hans. Mel. Sometimes Demi. We only have six (sometimes five) friends for a reason — together we are literally THE MOST obnoxious people on the planet. I bet you a cupcake no one will ever annoy Coach like we have. We’ve shared a lane together since freshman year, even though you didn’t speak to me until we were sophomores. Whatever. I’m over it. I know you are GRATEFUL for my friendship. I really want a Pepsi. But seriously, you’re one of my best friends and I am really going to miss me when you ditch me for Thailand. Cosmos at Ed’s? Sounds good.
    
TO THE JUNIORS:
    
Christina (aka Mocha Bear): I am glad that our friendship has gotten to the point where you can tolerate being around me (and Anne, because lets be honest I am delightful) nonstop for a week without you throwing your hands up in exasperation and stomping out. I’m so glad that you got to be on the team this year, and I have really enjoyed sharing a lane with you. I will miss our Nutella bagels in the morning, and all of our (non)alcoholic dates. You are a genuine friend and I’m glad we could bond over our minority- ness.
    
Dakota Rose Fanning: You probably don’t realize how much you’ve taught me about myself. You’re so persistent, to the point of annoyance, but it is really something to be admired. You never give up, even when waves knock you backward and slice your nose open. Even though you are from Wisconsin, you are my best friend and I hope your senior year at SMU is everything you hope it to be.
    
P. J.: I hope someday you will be able to return to your Sasquatch colony up north and be reunited with your Sasquatch brethren.
    
Scott: I’m glad you were able to come back to the team this year. I’ve really enjoyed watching you get better at swimming every year, keep it up!
    
Eggs: I enjoyed sitting at the lifeguard table with you for four months,barely speaking to each other and watching Netflix. I appreciate that your beard is ginger, and thank you for continuing to call me “Miss Lady”. You’re dives are impeccable, good luck with the rest of your career at SMU!
    
TO THE SOPHOMORES:
    
Chloë: YOU ARE A BEAST! Everyday you blow me out of the pool! You’re determination is absolutely inspiring, and I really believe you will get better and better. You are quite a cool lady, and I hope the next two years are a lot of fun for you!
    
Grace (aka Gabe): Ohhhh Grace...what can I say? Our long car rides home are certainly bonded our friendship. You have such fantastic potential as a leader and a swimmer, and I really respect your work ethic. Don’t let anyone get in your way, you have the ability to do anything you set your mind to. You’re probably one of the most hilariously awkward people I know (minus Anne). I’m so proud to call you my co-captain in Water Polo, and always remember YOU’RE A LADY.
    
Joe: JOOOOOOOOEEEEE. I love how much you love swimming. Keep working at it, kid. And remember, when people make fun of you or poke you...it means they like you. Also, I am passing on to you the duty of always bringing a Die Hard movie on the bus.
    
Claire: I’m so happy you decided to join the swim team this year! You have really improved as a swimmer, and it is a direct result of how hard you work at it. I hope the next two years are a lot of fun and I wish you all the success!
    
Marit: Marit, Marit, Marit. You're such a sweet and     caring person. Continue to set those goals for yourself and aspire to beat them. Always know you have a home on the SMU Swim Team.
    
E.J.: California. Thats all I got. Just kidding. I’m really happy you joined this year, I hope you’ve enjoyed yourself! You bring a lot of humor and sass to the team, and I really hope you decide to come back. Keep working hard!
    
Shelby: I hope next season works out better for you! I enjoyed hanging out with you at the meets, and I hope you're next two years at Saint Mary’s are successful!
    
TO THE FRESHMEN:
    
Brian: My son.
    
Zach, Geraldina, Hannah, Jannelle and Reese: You guys survived! Good job! May the odds forever be in your favour . Just kidding. Its been a lot of fun hanging out with you guys (even though Zach literally only started speaking a couple weeks ago). Reese, thank you for laughing at my bad jokes, it makes me feel loved. Hannah and Geraldina, keep working hard! Jannelle, it sucks that you’re transferring, but I wish you all the luck!