VYPE: What has your swimming taught you that you use in your daily life?

Cole: Swimming has taught me to never give up. It made me realize that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to.

VYPE: Who is your favorite teacher from any grade and why?

Cole: My favorite teacher of all time was and always will be Mrs. Lawson. She was my 8th grade Science teacher and later became one of my swim coaches. Mrs. Lawson was always encouraging and she taught me everything about swimming. She greatly impacted my life and I will always be grateful to her.

VYPE: Who inspires you and why?

Cole: The people who inspire me the most are my parents. They refuse to let me fail and always push me to be a better student, athlete, and overall person.

VYPE: What teammate has left the biggest impression on you and why?

Cole: I’ve had so many amazing teammates over the past 3 years, but there are two teammates that stand out the most. When I first started swimming my freshman year Justin Gilliam was a great mentor. He helped me with my swimming techniques and helped push me to success. Another teammate that leaves a big impression on me is Jack Mose. I can always count on Jack for words of encouragement and motivation.

VYPE: What is your favorite part about being on a team?

Cole: My favorite part about being on a team is making lifelong friends who challenge and inspire me every day. It’s like having a second family.

VYPE: You can pick any place for a summer vacation, where do you go and who do you take with you?

Cole: If I could choose any summer vacation I would go to Paris during the 2024 summer Olympics. I would bring my teammates so they could experience it with me.

VYPE: Why are you passionate about your sport?

Cole: I am passionate about my sport because it has brought so many amazing things into my life. There is nothing like the swimming community, everyone is always so encouraging. I especially love the challenge that it gives me every day.

VYPE: Here is your chance to say hello, goodbye or thank you to anyone you wish. 

Cole: I would like to say thank you to all the great people that I have met since I started swimming. To my coaches, teammates, and family; words can’t express how much I appreciate your support and encouragement.