Name: Brianna Petrova
Sport: Swim
Grade: 9th
Star Stats: 37.82 secs in 200 yard medley relay, 30.75 in 200 yard individual medley
Why did you start this sport: I started swimming because I really enjoy being in the water and I just wanted to give it a try and I have loved it ever since.
Pre-game ritual?: Listening to hype music, getting advice from my coaches and just having a good attitude about your upcoming race.
Best memory ever from the sport: Swimming at a meet in Kentucky. Me and my teammates had a lot of fun and made new memories together. I also pr in 400 IM (individual medley) and 200 FR (freestyle).
Proudest moment in the sport: When I dropped time in my 500 FR. I’ve been working really hard to drop time and all my hard work finally paid off.
Biggest motivation: Myself. If I don’t push myself, I’m not going to go anywhere with swim. This sport is mostly an individual sport. When you go on the blocks, it’s all about you. So you have to have a good mindset.
Are you planning to do this sport in the future/college: Yes, so far I am wanting to swim in college. I don’t know what school yet though.
How do you stay focused when you’re under pressure: I try to think positively and to not get into my head. This sport is a very mental sport which makes it 10x harder, so i just try to distract myself and my thoughts. Before a race I always say “I’m just gonna swim it.” This helps me stay less worried and kinda help my mind stay calm. I still go out fast and swim my best, it just helps keep the negative thoughts out of my mind.
What advice would you give to someone starting this sport: Find a good team that you enjoy being around with and sticking to it. It is really hard to enjoy this sport without a good support system around you. Your team will help you during your darkest days and they will always be there for you.
What is the most rewarding part about being an athlete in your sport: Seeing the progress you’ve made through your season. Also having your coaches proud of you definitely makes me feel good and rewarded.
What’s so different about you being an athlete compared to other athletes: Being a swimmer is so different from other sports. You have to put so much time and effort into this sport. You have to work on your mindset, speed, endurance, technique, and so much more. People usually think swim is super easy and that it isn’t considered a sport but if they tried going to one of my practice they would think otherwise.
