Amy Owenson, a talented swimmer from Galashiels, has taken a unique path to university life, choosing to prioritize her education over her swimming career. This decision, though challenging, has allowed her to explore new opportunities and gain a fresh perspective on her sporting journey. In this article, I will delve into Amy's story, exploring the reasons behind her choice, the impact on her swimming, and the broader implications for young athletes.
A Life of Early Rises and Brutal Sessions
For Amy, the road to becoming one of the East District's top swimmers was paved with early mornings and rigorous training sessions. From the age of eight, she dedicated herself to the Gala Swimming Club and the Borders Elite Swim Team (BEST), logging around eight sessions a week, including morning and evening swims, gym circuits, and additional club practices. Her coaches, including Jenny Goodfellow, Robyn Methven, Steve Powell, and Kirsty Armstrong, played a pivotal role in pushing her to new heights.
The Decision to Pause
At the age of 18, Amy faced a pivotal moment. The opportunity to attend the University of Stirling presented itself, and she had to decide between continuing her swimming career or pursuing her education. She chose the latter, recognizing that her swimming achievements, such as winning the Scottish 50m breaststroke title, were more about the rewards of her hard work than a stepping stone to the next level.
A New Perspective on Swimming
Amy's decision to take a breather from swimming doesn't mean she has completely stepped away from the sport. She still trains three times a week with the University swim team, attends gym sessions, and competes in university-level meets. However, the pressure and intensity of her previous training regimen have lessened, allowing her to enjoy the sport in a new light.
The Benefits of a University Education
Amy's choice to prioritize her education has opened doors to new experiences and friendships. She has embraced university life, making friends outside of her sporting cocoon. This shift in focus has also allowed her to explore other interests and develop a broader perspective on her future.
The Role of Support Systems
Amy's decision to take a break from swimming was supported by the Scottish Borders Council's Athlete Support Programme (ASP), which provided her with the necessary resources and guidance. Additionally, her work with sports psychologist Brad Fullarton helped her gain a more holistic view of her sporting journey and the importance of mental well-being.
The Enjoyment of Sport
Amy's story highlights the importance of recognizing that sport is not just about medals and achievements. It's about the friendships, discipline, and self-belief that come with it. Her decision to prioritize her education doesn't diminish her sporting achievements but rather allows her to appreciate the broader benefits of her sporting journey.
Looking Ahead
As Amy embarks on her university career, she is also beginning to explore the possibilities of a career in sport. While the Commonwealth Games and Olympics may be out of reach for now, she is eager to see where her new-found balance between swimming and education will take her. Her story serves as a reminder that athletes can achieve success in multiple ways, and that sometimes, taking a step back can lead to a more fulfilling journey ahead.
