Brynn Stokes '18 Recruiting Profile

At what some may consider the relatively late age of 14, I plunged in to the world of competitive athletics by joining my local summer league swim team. A little more than six months later, I qualified as a freshman for my high school varsity regional meet in one of the most competitive 6A regions in the State of Texas. I had instantly fallen in love with swimming and according to my much more experienced swim friends, I had taken to the sport immediately as well.

I was home-schooled for a majority of my elementary and middle school years and swimming really eased my transition into high school. I became part of a family – a community where I found belonging and fellowship. I realize now that swimming provides me direction and focus, both in and out of the water. More than that, the sport boosts my confidence and self-esteem. It spurs me to accomplish things I might not have ever tried in other areas of my life and confidence has a ripple effect. I’ve maintained outstanding grades in my classwork, achieved recognition as an academic and merit scholar, become a life guard, joined a USA Swimming Club, and have lettered in both varsity swim and choir. Swimming has given me balance and fulfillment. Becoming a student-athlete has taught me the value of teamwork, perseverance, leadership, and most importantly, commitment and dedication.

I want to continue being a part of a sport that gives me balance and pushes me to do my best as an athlete, student, artist, and citizen. Furthermore, I love being part of a team and swimming for something bigger than myself. I’m still relatively new in this sport (only about three years) and while I recognize that I have much more to learn, I’m a quick study; I'm enthusiastic and motivated; I encourage and build-up others; and I’m personally committed to work hard for the benefit of the team.