Cole

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

What Cole loves most about swimming is the challenge it brings, both as an individual and as part of a team. He loves chasing his own personal best times while also being pushed and supported by his teammates. For Cole, all the hard work he puts in during practice becomes worth it the moment he drops time at a meet. That payoff, seeing his effort turn into real results, is what keeps him motivated to keep pushing forward, even when it's hard.

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

Cole's greatest inspiration is Michael Phelps, because of his incredible achievements in the pool. He's also deeply inspired by elite Black swimmers, especially Simone Manuel, who he's watched swim live twice, as well as Cullen Jones and Josh Liendo. Seeing people who look like him excelling in spaces he aspires to be in gives Cole so much confidence. He's also inspired by his older teammates and coaches, who mentor him both in and out of the pool.

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

The moment I'm proudest of is now! After the state meet, where Cole swam personal bests in every event, we got a third opinion with an epileptologist. We learned his epilepsy had been misdiagnosed and his treatment plan was counterproductive. As he's aging up, he's managing side effects from titrating meds, but it hasn't impacted his focus. His grit is remarkable, he stood out at swim camps over break, still getting laps in to stay ready. His positivity and focus inspire everyone around him.