Swimming since she was just in kindergarten, Sophia Ray (9) has near perfect strokes and a swim time that is impressive. She has essentially grown up in the water, constantly pushing herself to improve. However, for some, this sport may pose certain challenges. 

“An obstacle I had to face would be more towards my mental awareness about the sport. When going against people who have worked harder than you, it can sometimes make you overthink,” Ray said.

Despite the anxiety this sport may causes her, Ray continues to stay dedicated and determined, believing that having a mindset of always being able to improve within yourself is key in succeeding. 

“I have grown up around people who have always been better than me. I know that this sport can be very competitive. However, I’ve grown up with a mindset that I am always able to improve and push myself and my limits leading me to become a great swimmer,” Ray said.

As a student athlete at OHS, Ray manages to balance swimming with extracurriculars by investing her time in her academics, prioritizing trying to complete what is needed of her to do in a timely and orderly manner.

“I try to balance swim with everyday life by putting my work in making sure I’m getting my school work done because school is a very important part of making sure I am part of the swim team,” Ray said. “I make sure to make time for everything I do.”

Being a swimmer for most of her life, she has learned one thing: being a swimmer can have its ups and downs, but the overall sport consists of teamwork and sportsmanship. 

“Swimming to me is teamwork and you have to be like cheering your team on,” Ray said. “It’s nice to know people have the compassion for something you have.”