When the scorching afternoon sun glares down, most flee for shade and air conditioning, but not freshman swimmer Taylor Lee. She dives back into the pool, cutting through the water with the urgency of someone racing their own rising expectations. For her, it’s just another challenge to beat with grit and resilience, all while managing to do it in style.
Lee’s aquatic journey started eight years ago when she chose swimming as her main sport. Despite her natural prowess in the pool, she has consistently pushed herself athletically this year, trying water polo for the first time in addition to swimming. Even though it was her first time playing water polo, Lee adjusted quickly, translating her swimming knowledge into sharp instincts and tactful positioning, growing her confidence along the way and earning her the spot to start every game thus far. The team finished with an overall record of 12-6, placing 2nd in the league.
Senior teammate Miki Chan reflected on Lee’s contributions to the swim team, sharing “She’s an important attribute to the team. Even just as a freshman and only seeing her swim for a few weeks now, I can see her contributions being large to the long-term success of the team.”
Lee is more than just a dependable starter; she’s the kind of athlete whose effort and attitude benefit a whole team. This separates Lee from being just a force in the pool, as she also makes waves outside of it. Head coach Missy McCreary shared, “She walks on this pool deck every single day with a huge smile on her face, ready to get after whatever swim set or practice we’re going to throw at her. She doesn’t complain about anything.”
Furthermore, Lee’s commitments to practices and weekly swim meets take up much of her time. Even though her demanding schedule limits hang-outs with friends, she has remained optimistic and finds joy, connection and shared memories in the pool, showing her passion for the sport. Lee shares, “I’ve realized that maybe I don’t spend time at the mall with friends, but I can spend time with friends in a pool. So, I’ve learned how to see the bright side of things.”
Lee’s story in the water is still being written, but its themes are clear: resilience, adaptability and joy. With multiple swim meets ahead and many water polo seasons to come, Lee is shaping the future of Poly aquatics, one season at a time.
