It’s probably safe to say that most young people don’t expect to one day be just like their parents. We nurture every interest and pursue avenues in every other direction, until one day, it happens. We’re them. 

Flattery at its best, actually. 

So, here I am, it’s another late Monday night. Keyboard in my lap, feet resting on the corner of my desk... I’m writing my last bylined piece for the Lake County Leader and it’s proving rather difficult. I’m searching for the words to wrap up these last few years at the newspaper, while at the same time introducing myself to you all for the first time as the new aquatic director for Mission Valley Aquatics.

It’s strange how quickly life can change. One minute you’re cruising along at a comfortable pace, perfectly content with the state of things, confident you can handle whatever comes your way. A month ago, I really did have it all figured out. I was encouraged to apply for the advertised position with MVA. I thought, “Why not? Fat chance I’ll get it, but what’s the harm in putting myself out there?”

I’ve been in and out of the wonderful world of swimming my entire life. My dad began his career as an NCAA Division I swim coach at Penn State University and I was thrown into the pool at McCoy Natatorium before I could walk. I grew up in the culture of competitive swimming, and while my personal career peaked around age 10 (after taking second place in the 25-yard breaststroke at summer league championships), I continued swimming year-round through our aquatic club and captained both my high school and college swim teams. 

During my teenage years and throughout college, I was a lifeguard at indoor and outdoor facilities and led swim lessons at two different pools. Lifeguarding taught me responsibility, accountability and leadership. Plus, I got a great tan. 

As the years went by, I came to realize that very few things in life can do what swimming did for me — it gave me a second family, it gave me a direction and it taught me that dedication and perseverance are the keys to success. Sure, that may sound cheesy, but what other sport asks kids to wake up in the dark, work out, go to school, work out again, go home in the dark to a pile of homework, eat again, sleep and repeat — all year long? 

Moving to Montana was the single best decision I’ve ever made, and I have the Leader to thank for that. The Leader team has encouraged me from the getgo — always pushed me to put myself out there in the community, always supported me during difficult times and never discouraged me from moving onward and upward. I’ve been fortunate to work with some incredible people during my time at the Leader, and without a doubt those relationships will be crucial to building community support for the new aquatic center.

From day one, I cautiously but enthusiastically embraced the many cultural and economic facets of life on the Flathead Reservation. Our small communities are each unique, yet they share an unparalleled commitment to taking care of one another and working together to bring about a better life for everyone here. I’ve seen firsthand the power in collaboration from citizens of all walks of life, and for me, Mission Valley Aquatics embodies that vision of togetherness.

The future is bright for the Mission Valley and I look forward to stepping out of my comfort zone again, reaching out and getting to know members of this valley that I’ve yet to meet. Four years ago, I discovered this place out of pure luck. I took a leap of faith and was rewarded in every way imaginable — everything I want is right here. 

Now, I want nothing more than to prove that I can truly contribute to making this a safer place to live while kicking up that quality of life another notch.