If you are a swimmer, every stroke, every turn, and every second counts. For Kaitlyn Kucera, a freshman biology major, those seconds turned into history when she broke the school record for the 200 Individual Medley (IM) with a time of 2:23.25. Her achievement was not just a personal victory but an inspiration to fellow swimmers who dream of setting records of their own. 

For Kaitlyn, this record-breaking moment was a goal she had set for herself from the start. “My goal going into the meet was to break the record,” she said, demonstrating the mindset of a determined athlete. Unlike some surprises in sports, this milestone was the result of meticulous planning, rigorous training, and unwavering focus. 

Leading up to the meet, Kaitlyn concentrated on her IM work, refining all four strokes to ensure smooth transitions and peak efficiency. Her strategy was clear: stay strong during the butterfly and backstroke legs, and then attack the second half of the race with powerful breaststroke and freestyle strokes. This tactical approach proved to be the winning formula. 

The Mental and Physical Battle 

Success in competitive swimming is also a mental challenge. Before stepping onto the blocks, Kaitlyn focused on staying calm and mentally rehearsing her race plan. “During the race, I concentrated on keeping my technique intact and pacing myself to avoid burning out too early,” she shared. This balance between control and aggression allowed her to push her limits without jeopardizing her performance. 

Yet, her journey wasn’t without challenges. As a student-athlete, balancing academics and rigorous training was no easy feat. Some days were particularly rough—days when she felt drained and unmotivated. But Kaitlyn pushed through, staying committed to both her education and her sport. 

It Was A Team Effort 

Though swimming is often viewed as an individual sport, Kaitlyn’s success was deeply intertwined with the support of her teammates and coaches. Coach Brad played a crucial role in pushing her beyond her limits, while her teammates provided encouragement both in and out of the pool. A special mention goes to Elijah, a teammate who helped push her during IM practices, reinforcing the power of friendly competition. 

What’s Next? 

This achievement is only the beginning for Kaitlyn. She is determined to refine her technique, build on her pacing strategies, and strengthen her endurance for future competitions. The record is just a stepping stone. Her sights are set on even greater accomplishments.

For young swimmers aspiring to break records, Kaitlyn offers a powerful piece of advice: “Trust the process. You’re not always going to have your best time, but don’t let that discourage you. Work hard, stay focused on your goals, and eventually, you’ll get there.” 

With that mindset, it’s clear that Kaitlyn Kucera is not just a record-breaker—she’s a leader in the making.