Dear CSU-Pueblo Swim Team,

I am so proud of you. Last season was a little rough, but since then we have pulled together and put the past behind us, just like any tight knit family would do. I have really gotten to know all of you this season and you have not only become some of my best friends, but you have become my second family.

The amount of love and support I have received from this team is overwhelming. I welcome the feedback you give me, and I try to keep it in mind as I try to make my stroke better. I know I can be socially awkward at times, and talk too much, and I ask a billion questions, a billion different times, but you have welcomed me with open arms. There are no words to express how truly grateful I am. I absolutely love when I find little quotes all over my locker. I keep them taped on the inside of my locker as a reminder to keep motivated.

I have never had this much fun on any other team. From locker room dance parties to bus ride sing-alongs to watching The Bachelor every week. I even enjoy going to study hall, and that is saying something.

Training trip this year was so much fun. We were able to do more team bonding activities than we have been able to do in the past. Even though we swam 43,000 yards, and cried 43,000 tears in four days, I wouldn’t have wanted to do it with anyone else.

You guys have inspired me to try new things, like swimming different strokes that I’m not used to, new social interactions, and even writing for the odyssey.

Right now, we are almost at the end of our season. I know it’s hard, and all of us are tired and sore, but it is important to keep a positive attitude. We have almost made it through our 20-week season. We are in the home stretch, and once we finish, there will be a sense of accomplishment in all of us.

I have faith that all of us will do well at conference, and please know that I will always be here if any of you need anything. I have been truly blessed with this team, and I want to say thank you. Thank you so much for everything, and please remember to just keep swimming.

Love,

Hannah