On Wednesday, May 23, 2018, Upper Dublin seniors Samara Cheifetz and Rebecca Pendleton were recognized for committing to continue their swimming careers at the collegiate level. Check back to view photos of the event.
Samara Cheifetz – La Salle University (Swimming)
Major: Early Education
Final list of colleges: La Salle, Arcadia, Monmouth
Reasons for choosing La Salle: “I looked at a number of schools, and each offered something unique. However, La Salle University is a school where I could truly envision myself for the next four years. The education department and education program are wonderful. I like the relatively smaller setting, and the campus atmosphere is awesome. Additionally, the university has a great swim program.”
What was the progression that led you to continuing your swimming career at the collegiate level? “I started thinking about swimming at the collegiate level during my freshman year of high school. My desire to both improve and challenge myself in the pool as well as the joy I get from being part of a team has continued to strengthen over the last four years.”
Swimming coach Pat Redican says: “Samara was one of our captains, and she was very, very dedicated. She’s one of the most even-keeled and hardworking swimmers that I’ve ever met. She improved so much over her four years in high school, and that was all about her ability to stay focused. I know she’s going to keep getting better at La Salle, and they’re lucky to have her.”
About Samara:
Favorite food: Pasta
Favorite movie: Good Will Hunting & The Proposal
Favorite music: Country & Pop
Rebecca Pendleton – Saint Francis University (Swimming & Water Polo)
Major: Undecided
Final list of colleges: Saint Francis University, Hartwick, Rider
Reasons for choosing Saint Francis: “When I walked on the campus, I felt right at home. The area is beautiful, and the people were very welcoming. It was also great to have the support from both the water polo and swim coaches on my decision to play both sports. After talking with teachers, I felt like there were a lot of opportunities at this school, which I am very excited to explore.”
What was the progression that led you to competing in water polo and swimming at the collegiate level? “I have been swimming since I was a little girl and could not imagine being without it. I have learned so much from just that one sport and not just in the water, out of the water as well. Self-discipline, teamwork, drive, attitude, mental toughness, all characteristics that have made me who I am. At the end of my junior year, I began to reach out to college coaches.
“Three years ago, I tried water polo and instantly fell in love with the sport. I then helped start the first girls’ water polo team at Upper Dublin and have put a lot of time into that sport, which paid off after making it to states this past fall. I knew that I wanted to keep learning about water polo since I enjoyed it so much and hopefully can then pass on what I learned in the next few years to my high school team. I also hope to spread the Upper Dublin name to other colleges to get some of my teammates on their radar in case they decide to play water polo at the collegiate level as well.”
Water polo coach Chris Ianni says: “Rebecca Pendeleton helped start the water polo team three years ago. She brought together a group of 10 girls and brought a brand new sport to the school. She was a captain all three years, and she is continuing playing at Saint Francis University. She led the team in steals and kick-outs drawn, which was absolutely incredible. Her work ethic was tremendous, and she was able to develop that in her teammates as well. She was second team all-conference and third team all-state, a top 30 player in the state.”
Swimming coach Pat Redican: “Rebecca Pendleton was one of our captains and one of the most focused and dedicated athletes I’ve ever had. She’s been a state-qualifying swimmer since she was a sophomore, and her attention to detail and her coachability is just beyond compare. I know she’s going to do great at Saint Francis.”
About Rebecca:
Favorite food: Grilled Cheese
Favorite movie: The Blind Side
Favorite music: Pop
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