Photo courtesy of UR Athletics
Junior swimmer Alex Veech has picked up where she left off last season as she continues to have impactful performances. In the recent session of Liberty League Swimming and Diving Championships, she set a new school record in the 100 breaststroke with a time of 1:04.16, claiming a second-place finish. She also claimed third place in the 200 breaststroke. Her impressive performance in the 100 earned her a NCAA Division III ‘B’ cut time, as the team secured its seventh consecutive Liberty League title.
1. How did you first get into competitive swimming?
I first began swimming competitively because of my younger brother! I have always enjoyed the water; but, when my brother took me to my first practice, I fell in love.
2. What is your favorite part about the sport?
The best part of the sport is the people. The team dynamic is so unique from every other sport, especially here at UR. Our team here is a family. We support each other through each practice, during every race and in the classroom as well. I love the team here. I’m truly grateful to have such awesome people surrounding me every day!
3. Do you have any pre-game rituals?
I always fuss with my goggles. My biggest fear is that they will fall off during my race, so I spend the couple minutes before [and] adjusting them on my face to make sure they will stay on.
4. Who do you look up to most? Why?
My younger brother, Kristian. He is a sophomore at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Music has been his thing since we were kids. He wrote his first symphony when he was seven! He’s been my best friend through it all, and he inspires me to follow my dreams.
5. How do you feel breaking both the school record and earning a NCAA Division III ‘B’ cut time for the 100 breaststroke?
I’m really excited! I had shoulder surgery my freshman year, so being able to prove to myself that I can come back from that is surreal. It’s been a tough road dealing with my injury, but I’m really excited to see what’s next now that it’s feeling better.
6. How do you feel about the team recording its seventh consecutive Liberty League title?
I’m pumped for seven years straight, and ready to work for year eight!
7. Would you rather make piña coladas with Carl Sagan or Leonardo da Vinci? Why?
I’d like to make piña coladas with Leonardo da Vinci! I could see some amazing artwork, hopefully pick up some sort of artistic skill and then eat massive amounts of authentic Italian food.
