April Member of the Month, Maria F

Share about your swim career and your most recent accomplishment in the sport!
I started swimming at six months old in a baby swim class. My love for the water continued to grow, and when I was six, I started swimming competitively. When I was nine years old, I was introduced to para swimming and I instantly knew that I wanted to be an elite swimmer. Over the past couple of years, I have had the opportunity to compete internationally for Team USA, including at the 2023 Parapan American Games in Santiago, Chile, where I placed second in the Women’s S9 100m Backstroke. This past summer, I competed at the 2024 Paralympic Team Trials Swimming. My goal is to compete for Team USA at the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles and to continue to grow awareness for the Paralympic Movement.

What brought you to Island Rec?
Hilton Head Aquatics

What is your favorite part about Island Rec?
My favorite part about Island Rec is the community and the pool!

What is your preferred type of exercise here?
Swimming 

Do you have a favorite local restaurant?
My favorite local restaurant is Watusi Cafe

Where were you born?
I was born in Syracuse, NY

Do you have any hobbies? If so, what?
In my free time, I love to read, bake, and play games with my family!