Bucknell University Athletics
Bucknell Women's Swimming and Diving Blog - Kristen Purdy
The end of the season is something the entire team looks forward to and gets excited about. We all plan for it and as soon as students return to campus in January, it becomes a reality. The countdowns clearly printed on our practices are daily reminders that the end is in sight. Everything we have worked so hard for, for the past six months is finally boiling down to one or two championship meets. The numerous hours, early mornings in the weight room, and countless laps we've swam together have built us up for our final test: championships. For many, championships is the final cap to a season of teamwork, success, and even some hardship. But as a senior, championships means something more. It marks the end of four years as a Division I athlete, the end of 5:30 a.m. alarms, the end of swimming countless circles with teammates who have made us better competitors and better people.
For most seniors, myself included, swimming has become more than a sport. Swimming is a part of who I am and has not only shaped my college experience but also my personal growth. Being a part of the Bucknell Swimming and Diving team has been an unbelievable experience and I can say that every senior would agree. As the season comes to an end, the excitement and anticipation among the team rises. But as a senior this time comes with additional feelings of apprehension and suspense, as it is hard for me too imagine my life without the sport that has played a role for so many years. Even though we're experiencing these emotions, excitement and exhilaration prevail. This is the first year in a long time that the women's team is heading into championships undefeated in the Patriot League. Our success and development as a team can be seen not only in our dual meet record but in our mindset as we approach these final weeks. This season each individual's dedication for the sport as well as to the team has been increasingly apparent. Our team's unity is discernible.
As the season comes to an end, it is gratifying to reminisce on the past four years. I reflect on how far we have come and how fortunate I am to be a part of such an admirable and motivated team. The culmination of every 5:30 a.m. alarm, every dive into the chilling water, every ache and pain endured, and every race finished with familiar voices cheering you on all comes down to these last races. Heading into my last championships knowing something great is coming makes it much harder to accept that it is the end. But I am looking forward to the meet and am excited for my teammates. We have worked so hard this season and I am eager to unveil our potential. Stepping up on the block at championships as a senior may be bittersweet but I will forever be a Bison.
- Kristen Purdy