San Luis Obispo High School is known for its rigorous academic environment and competitive sports teams. This year, the SLOHS girls varsity swim team made a splash in the pool and came first in league, beating out major competitors such as Arroyo Grande High School. Expressions interviewed varsity swim team member Amberly Clark to discover more about her swimming accomplishments and thoughts on the team winning league.

Expressions: How long have you been swimming for?

Sophomore Amberly Clark: I have been swimming competitively since I was seven years old.

Expressions: What are your major swimming accomplishments?

Clark: I have gone to Junior Olympics and Coastal Champs for swimming.

Expressions: What was it like playing on a varsity team starting your freshman year?

Clark: It was a little intimidating at first, but everyone made me feel super welcome and I have amazing coaches. My teammates are awesome and included me right away in everything.

Expressions: What is your favorite part about swimming on the SLOHS team?

Clark:  I think my favorite part is probably swimming with my teammates and feeling like we’re working as a team. It’s so cool to know that when you’re doing a hard set, your friend is right there doing it with you.

Expressions: What was it like being first in league?

Clark: It was amazing! All of us couldn’t even believe it. At first we were crying, it was just…like I still can’t even believe it.

Expressions: How has playing a varsity sport impacted your SLOHS experience?

Clark: Playing a varsity sport has helped me have better time management skills in school because I have to plan ahead and be prepared for assignments in which I don’t have a lot of time to do. It has also helped me meet many new friends and create fun memories that I hope I will never forget.

Expressions: What is it like having your dad as your swim coach?

Clark: It is super fun but sometimes embarrassing when he tries to make jokes. He is a great coach, and I feel lucky to be part of the swim team.

Expressions: Do you wish to pursue swimming as a career or in college?

Clark: No, I am not planning on playing sports for college but I definitely want to continue to swim as an adult.

Expressions: What advice would you give to someone who wishes to join a SLOHS varsity team or pursue playing a sport?

Clark: I would tell them to not be afraid to try out, and to be confident in their athletic ability regardless of what team they make. However, I think that it is important for students to understand that playing a sport is a commitment, and that it is a privilege to be able to do sports.