Printer-Friendly Format     E-mail this article     Morgan Farrell
	Women's Swimming Home HEADLINES No. 12 Lady Vols host Tennessee Swimming Invitational Lady Vol Diary - Katie Gehring Lady Vol Diary - Samara Gelb RELATED LINKS • CollegeSports.com Wire

Oct. 7, 2008

This team has changed my life...

Before I came to Tennessee, I dreaded going to practice every day, I didn't understand what it meant to be on a team, and I didn't know how to believe in myself.

Being on this team has completely transformed the way I think about this sport as well as my perspective on life. Now, I look forward to going to practice and I have rediscovered my love for swimming. I adore every single one of my teammates and I am always looking forward to every opportunity I am given to make myself and each one of them better.

Before I came to Tennessee, I had never thought to myself "give everything you have for the team today." Now, these thoughts have become part of my daily routine.

Before coming here I didn't understand what it felt like to be able to contribute to the success of others. Now I know that feeling quite well.

I used to underestimate myself and at times I thought I just wasn't good enough. Now I believe in myself to the fullest and I am sure that I can do whatever I dream of doing in this sport.

I strive to be the best I can be whether it's in the pool, the classroom, or as a person. This team wouldn't accept anything less from me. I have confidence in myself and I am beginning to see myself as more of a leader every day.

Going into this year, I have no doubts. I know that this team is going to be amazing and step up to every challenge we are given because that is what being a Lady Vol is all about.