A-level success sees swimmer dive into new chapter in USA

A-level success sees swimmer dive into new chapter in USA

RIPON Grammar School swimmer Nadine Wilson is celebrating an exciting new opportunity to take her academic and sporting career across the Atlantic.

The 18-year-old from Dishforth scored strong A-levels in business studies, geography ancd economics to win a place at William Carey University in Mississippi, where she will study business management as a student-athlete and compete for the university’s swimming team from this autumn.

Her A-levels cap a remarkable time at Ripon Grammar School in which she has successfully combined academic achievement with an exceptionally demanding swimming schedule.

Her commitment to swimming has seen Nadine travel more than 750 miles every week for training, fitting pool sessions, strength and conditioning around her schoolwork, as well as competing at weekends and throughout the holidays.

She has qualified for and competed at a host of prestigious events, including the Swim England National Summer Meet, Scottish National Open Swimming Championships, Edinburgh International Swim Meet, Cardiff International Open Meet, North East Regional Championships and Northumberland and Durham County Championships.

Nadine’s specialist events are butterfly, backstroke and individual medley, with the 200m butterfly bronze medal at the Swim England National Summer Meet her greatest achievement to date.

Now she is set to take that experience to the next level in the United States, where university sport provides the opportunity to combine high-level competition with a degree.

Nadine said: “I’m incredibly excited to continue my academic and athletic journey at William Carey University. This amazing opportunity will allow me to study for a degree in business management while continuing to compete in the sport I love at a high level.

“I’m very grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout my journey, especially my family, coaches and Ripon Grammar School.”

Her move to Mississippi is the latest achievement in a journey which has demanded huge commitment both in and out of the pool. Her coaches believe her strong work ethic will stand her in good stead as she takes on the challenge of university life and collegiate swimming in the USA.

Nadine and her family thanked Ripon Grammar School for its support throughout her years at the school.