Daria

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

When I was very young, my mom took me to the pool, and I fell in love with swimming. I’ve been swimming for as long as I can remember. I’m very energetic and could never sit still for long, so dance and rhythmic gymnastics also became part of my life and I loved them too. At the age of six I discovered artistic swimming and realized I had found my perfect sport! It combined everything I love: water, music, dance, and the chance to express myself. For me, it’s art and path to realizing my dream!

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

Daria is inspired by Olympic silver medalist Anita Alvarez, a brilliant and outstanding athlete from the USA. Once, after a performance, Anita lost consciousness right in the water. Daria realized just how grueling the sport can be and how much strength and character are required to keep pursuing one's dream. She admires Anita and her immense love for artistic swimming, and dreams of reaching that same high level one day.

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

As a mom, I am especially proud that she was selected to the USA Youth National team. I witnessed her entire journey: the early and late trainings, the fatigue, the tears, the injuries, the difficult elements, and the immense amount of hard work. But, she never gave up. I'm proud of her character, her perseverance and how much she loves her sport.