#THROWBACK to Worlds

Hey Everyone!

Today’s post is a very special one. My first year on the Canadian Senior National Team was interesting to say the least!!

Worst case was a Concussion mid-season of 2013. This is something that I have become very familiar with, having had 3 head injuries from 2010 to 2013. My 1st caused me to be out of the water for 3 months, ultimately needing to be re-taught all of the basic synchro skills. I started training again and about a month later received my 2nd concussion. This one was minor, only causing me to be out for 2 weeks. During this time, although I had some large obstacles to overcome, I set some huge goals. I went on to win all 5 events at the National Championships in 2011 and 3 of 5 events at the Championships in 2012. Also making the Canadian National Junior Team and the Junior World Championship Team in 2011 and 2012, respectively. Going on to achieve my ultimate goal, making the Senior National Team!

In 2013 I received my latest concussion, causing me to be out of training for a couple weeks. I had an AMAZING medical staff with Synchro Canada, who gave me all the tools I needed to be prepared to swim full-time again. (And SYMPTOM FREE!!!) Which I hadn’t been for over 2 years! I was happy, healthy and ready to compete.

In summer of 2013, we arrived in Spain for the World Championships in Barcelona. At this point, I still didn’t have a spot to swim. Just 2 weeks before competing, I received confirmation that I would be performing in the Combo Event! This was my 1st swim with the Senior National Team and it blew my mind! 17,000 people were in the stands to watch the best in the world compete. I remember walking out to the stage and saying to myself, “Calm, you can do this. Breathe.”

The announcer said, “Team Canada!!” and we were off. Here is the most amazing experience I have had on the world stage. So proud to be Canadian!!

I also have to share with you that my MOM is at the very end of the video waving the Canadian Flag, clearly very happy!! An unforgettable moment for my family!