Sports
Chattahoochee Gold Swimmer Commits To UNF Ospreys
Mary-Kate Wichalonis will study political science as her pre-law major at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville.
Mary-Kate Wichalonis of the Chattahoochee Gold year-round swim club has committed to the University of North Florida to continue her swim & academic careers. A dominant freestyler, Mary-Kate finished first in 200 Free last summer at the Georgia Senior State Long Course Championships.
“I chose UNF because it met all the criteria I was looking for in a college. Specifically, I was looking for a fairly large Division One school. The warm Florida climate also really appealed to me. Once I visited, I instantly clicked with the coach and the team and I knew it would be the perfect place for me to further my academics and swimming. I believe they chose me because my times will contribute to the team’s performance and I fit in well with the team.”
Mary-Kate is in her 8th year training with Gold at the Cumming Aquatic Center.
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“One of my proudest achievements at Gold was being elected team captain by my teammates," she said. "I have enjoyed every moment at Gold, and I am thankful for all the friendships and memories I have made along the way.”
Mary-Kate’s coach, Andy Eaton says, “I'm excited that Mary-Kate has found a perfect fit for her future. It's been gratifying to watch MK grow over all these years. The qualities that define her have always been there: hard-working, tenacious, her sense of humor. She's learned about herself from her trials in the pool and used the lessons to improve each season. She's become focused over the years and is ready to take her next step. Congratulations, MK!”