Freshman Lydia Jacoby has had an amazing swimming year. Jacoby placed first in state in the 100 breaststroke, the 200 IM and won Female Athlete of the Year (2018). She also broke the 100 breaststroke record. Not only did she do exceedingly well in state, but also on the national level; she has qualified for the 2020 Olympic trials for the 100 breaststroke. She is only the 11th Alaskan to qualify for the trials.

How does she accomplish all of this? Jacoby does weight training in the morning for 45 minutes and 2 hours swimming after school. She believes swimming is a valuable life skill, especially in Seward where many people spend time on boats. She claims being a “perfectionist” in school helps her balance her work and swimming. When asked how her parents feel about her success, she said, “They are probably more excited about it then I am.”

While she enjoys swimming, having friends with her makes the sport even better. Jacoby says that, “Just being at the meet was a big deal. . . even if I did not do very well.” For her swimming is a passion, but having the friends makes it that much better.

In her most recent meet in Homer, she broke her own personal record for the 200 breaststroke in the 13-14 year-old age group, as well as the open record for all ages. Considering she is only a freshman and excelling this much, it is going to be entertaining watching her for the next three school years.