Kaili Sacco

As a member of the CUSD team, I practiced and competed alongside both talented men and women. Having began the season during COVID-19, complications arose quickly for our team; we endured quarantines, weeks without practicing, and eventually a new coach. This team taught me to be resilient, even when it hurt; we always found a way to bounce back regardless of the hardship. My last season, my sophomore year of college, ended with breaking a record in the 200 Medley Relay at Ithaca College in February 2022, and several injuries. My love for swimming will never die, and I will continue to carry my indominable spirit with me throughout my academic and professional careers.

Growing up where swim wasn't popular, our high school swim team consisted of 16 young women, coached by Jen Dahm. As a member of this small team, my leadership skills blossomed, and I learned to fend not just for myself, but for my team. I was a co-captain my senior year of high school alongside Clare Burke. I was named MVP my junior and senior year of high school, which attested to my dedication to the team and the willpower to overcome hardships on my own.