By SwimSwam Contributors on SwimSwam
Courtesy: Elizabeth Spencer Rosenthal
Marilyn Monroe once said, “We are all of us stars, and we all deserve to twinkle.”
While coming face-to-face with the most talented athletes in the world may seem like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in most sports, in swimming, it happens all the time. With a strong and close-knit community focus, opportunities abound for fans to meet and greet the sport’s biggest stars.
Fans may encounter their favorite swimmers behind the blocks, in a warm-up or warm-down lane or even at a training pool somewhere. Elite swimmers may be out and about in the community doing outreach events, hosting swim clinics, or making appearances for their sponsors. Whether you’re seeking autographs, photographs or even some last-minute racing advice, meeting the stars of swimming can create inspiring, exciting and memorable times.
Alexa
Alexa, age 10, has been swimming since she was six years old, and dreams of becoming an Olympian. Like many young girls, her idol is Katie Ledecky. In fact, she has dressed as Katie Ledecky for Halloween for three years! “It would have been four, but one year I didn’t get to dress up because I was very sick,” she shared.
A fellow swim mom told Alexa’s mom that Katie was going to be swimming at Sectionals… and the rest is history! Off they went with some determination and a dream of meeting the swimming champion, who came through with flying colors. “She was so nice and inspiring, and even though she was getting ready to race, she was nice enough to take a picture and give me a few tips,” Alexa gushed.
As an ambitious young swimmer, Alexa also turned the moment into a learning opportunity. “I studied Katie while she was getting ready to race. And that was really inspiring to me, so now I can follow her steps as well,” Alexa explained. “We only usually get to see her behind the blocks, but I got a peek of her routine.”
Alexa is already a swimming super-fan, always looking for added inspiration and motivation from the best in the business. “I was also able to meet Katie Hoff and Elizabeth Beisel at a Speedo event and they really gave me some amazing advice for IM’s. They were so nice to me and made me feel so special. I listen to their podcast and follow them on Instagram as well because it is informative and fun.”
An aspiring breaststroker, Alexa was overjoyed to learn that Cody Miller would be signing autographs at her LSC’s Age Group Champs. “I was swimming the 100 Breast that day, and I went to him and asked him for tips for my race. He gave me some great pointers, and later that night he gave me my First Place Gold Medal for the 10 & under 100 Breast,” she recalled. “That was an epic moment!”
Zoe
You can also count Zoe (and her mom!) among Katie Ledecky’s faithful fandom. Like Alexa, when Zoe heard that Katie would be swimming at the local Sectionals meet, her parents took her to meet their favorite champion!
Alexandra
10-year-old Alexandra is Erika Pelaez’s biggest fan. “I met Erika at a local swimming competition when I was 7 years old, and since then she has been my idol.” Erika’s positive outlook and encouraging words have served as the young swimmer’s inspiration. “The day I met Erika, she told me, ‘Wow, I saw your breaststroke! I have never seen someone your age swim like that.’” Alexandra has some lofty goals for both herself and her swimming hero. “Today I just dream of going to the Olympics with Erika,” she shared.
Gabriel and Michael
Imagine the excitement for brothers Gabriel, 17, and Michael, 9, who met Michael Andrew when he stopped by their pool to swim! Andrew stayed to take pictures with them and the whole team after practice.
Photos with Michael Andrew and the signing table photos by Ulyana Navarro
Before and after the Pro Series Meet in Fort Lauderdale, the stars made time to meet and greet their fans.
When swim fans return the love to their favorite stars, it’s golden.
How can you meet your favorite swimming stars?
For fans who dream of meeting their swimming idols, sometimes it takes a little bit of luck, being in the right place at the right time. To improve your chances, stay tuned in to your local network of swim moms (and dads) who are often in the know! By following swimmers on social media, you may learn about their upcoming competitions, promotions and appearances at camps or clinics. Meet hosts may also publish details of meet and greet opportunities before or after a competition. Here are some tips for a successful interaction:
Be courteous and polite
Be patient
Respect the swimmers’ personal space
If you’re at a competition, remember that the stars are preparing for their own races
Be sure to stay focused on your own warmup and meet preparation
Be prepared with a pen or a Sharpie
Think of something brief to say
Say thank you
Cherish the moment
Most of all, have fun and follow your dreams!
ABOUT ELIZABETH SPENCER ROSENTHAL
Elizabeth Spencer Rosenthal is a wife and mother of 3 from Miami. She is a passionate swim mom, volunteer and meet official, with a professional background in marketing and public relations. She holds a degree in Public Communication from American University, and loves finding a story to tell.
Read the full story on SwimSwam: Swimming With Stars In Their Eyes