from Coach Jay Gillard
When it comes to recognizing a student-athlete’s all around achievements, one is oftentimes limited to short titles for the sake of expediency. On our team we roll titles and our team culture into one underlying concept, “Being a ‘Champion’, independent of results.” This concept is how we have come to describe Neil Abrahamson.
Neil’s success spans a broad swath of academic, artistic, and faith-based activities. And, he is one heck of a swimmer. Neil is a multi-year, multi-time All Conference and Section Champion, All State Swimmer, with sections record, team records, club records, pool records, NCSA Cuts and Winter JR Nationals cuts. He is an All-American Academically and for Swimming, MVP of our team last year and one of our Captains this year. Neil is an artist, a musician in the school band, and a mentor to his teammates in the pool, the kids he teaches at his church, and friends at school. Neil even earned royalty status this fall, when he was voted East Ridge’s Homecoming King.
The secret to all of Neil’s success, in the pool and in life, he’d tell you is ‘taking direct and personal accountability for everything you dedicate yourself to.” Neil is an absolute pleasure to coach, and he truly embodies the concept and title of ‘Champion’! Best of luck to Neil as he matriculates to the NCAA Division III power house, Kenyon next fall.
Sounds like an amazing high school career for Neil and Kenyon is lucky to have him next fall. Minnesota Swim and Vibe would like to join your coaches in recognizing all you have given to your team and the sport. Vibe on Neil!!!