In my family, everyone plays baseball. It is not a choice. Although I played baseball, standing alone in the outfield wasn’t my idea of “teamwork.” It wasn’t until eight years ago, when I slipped off a 30-foot high diving board, falling face-first into Lake Wallenpaupack, that I had an epiphany. Swimming would be my sport.

Now, as a varsity swimmer, I crouch on the starting block by the pool, waiting as my relay teammate backstrokes towards me. I know the thrill of waiting to spring to life in a race. It’s just one of many reasons I’ve devoted six hours a week to swimming. Our success in the pool is derived from the trials and camaraderie of 6 a.m. daily practices where we rehearse flip turns and relay starts. We are inspired by our poolside cheers, our teamwork and, as a unit, reaching for new heights in the depths. When my teammate’s hand touches the tile, I swing my arms for momentum, leap off the block face-first and feel the icy water envelope my body.