Asphalt Green’s Swim for the Future Scholarship was created in honor of two Asphalt Green Masters Swim Team members—Andrew Fisher and Doug Irgang—who tragically lost their lives on 9/11. Scholarships are awarded each year to talented AGUA Swim Team members.

 

This year, AGUA swimmer Jadyn received a Swim for the Future Scholarship. Originally from Guyana, Jadyn moved to New York two years ago and has been on the AGUA Swim Team since. Learn more about this talented athlete!

 

Jadyn's favorites:

Music: NF

School subject: Math

Ice cream flavor: Cookies and cream  

Colors: Red, black, and white (together)

 

Q: How did you get into swimming?

A: My big sister was the swimmer of the family, and we followed her. Now, I've been swimming for 13 years. I always boast that it's the second-hardest sport in the world (behind gymnastics). Swimming is a huge sport, but no one watches unless it's the Olympics. Where I'm from, Guyana, there are not many swimmers. I represent my country whenever there are big meets.

 

Q: How would you describe experience on the AGUA Swim Team?

A: At first it was like culture shock because the swim sets were as hard as I was training back home but faster intervals. We didn't waste any time. The coaches are strict, and I like that. The whole culture was different. I gradually adjusted.

 

Q: How has swimming helped with the transition from Guyana to the US?

A: I couldn't imagine my life without swimming. I would be bored with so much free time. Without the scholarship wouldn't have been able to swim.

 

Q: What are your goals in the sport?

A: The goal is to go to the Olympics, which will likely happen because my sister and I are among a small group of elite swimmers for Guyana. I want to go and win a medal. Last year, I went to the Youth Olympic Games. Another goal is to swim in college. Academics come first.

 

Q: How do you balance school and training?

A: Because I've been balancing school and training for so long, it has gotten easier over the years. I have a planner and aim to get my homework done as soon as possible. That way, I have time to relax my mind and not stress.

 

Q: What's a typical training week like?

A: I swim a little over 11 hours per week.  

 

Q: How do you stay motivated?

A: I want to know that my day is fulfilled. I love swimming, so I keep going. My parents always thought I would quit a long time ago, so I also want to prove them wrong.

 

Q: Why do you think sports are important?

A:  First, sports can get you to a better college. Second, you want to have something else inside your life that is worth your attention. The whole idea of a human being is to make connections. With swimming, you have another family.

 

Q: What does the scholarship mean to you?

A: The Swim for the Future scholarship means everything to me. Without the scholarship, I would not be able to swim. It takes the stress off of my family.