On Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2015, Central Bucks East senior Hannah Wittman was recognized for signing a letter of intent to swim at the University of Pittsburgh. Wittman has advanced to states in each of her three years on the team, winning four medals. To view photos of the event, please visit the Photo Gallery.
Hannah Wittman – University of Pittsburgh (Swimming)
Major: Undecided
Final list of colleges: Pitt, Kenyon, Lehigh, Penn State
Reasons for choosing Pitt: “Pitt - when I went on my recruiting trip - was the school I fell in love with instantly. I loved the team atmosphere, I loved the campus, I loved how it was close by the city so I could go and explore, and I really had a great connection with the coaches. After that trip, I knew I was sold on the school, but I wanted to keep my options open, but in my heart, that was the school from the start.”
What was the progression that led you to swimming at the collegiate level? “I started in ninth grade, and I was almost ready to not continue swimming. I wanted to go play field hockey, but my mom was like, ‘You have to try a team. You have to try East – it’s so great,’ so I tried it. The coaches inspired me, and my club coach – Jeff Faikish – inspired me to keep swimming. As I realized I was a pretty good swimmer, I was like, ‘Maybe I’ll look into swimming schools – not a D-1 school but maybe a D-3 school.’ Then as I continued to progress, I wanted to challenge myself at a Division One school if I could, and Pitt fit.”
Coach Tom Kane says: “She’s just amazing and has been since ninth grade. I don’t think we have ever had a freshman win a district championship, so the talent was there all along. It’s always rewarding when you see a swimmer get better every year, and last year was just phenomenal, winning two individual events and winning Most Valuable Swimmer at the district championships. That’s a first at this school as well.
“Hannah every day gives you 100 percent in every set you give her at practice. She will hit the wall after her last repeat and look up at us and say, ‘That was a tough one.’ Then she just comes right back and goes after the next set. There was never a time when I could say to Hannah, ‘You’re not putting it in.’ She’s just 100 percent all the time and just a wonderful girl to coach. During dry land, we’ll exchange ideas. She’s mature. She’s just a well rounded, grounded and great girl to coach.”
About Hannah:
Favorite food: Breakfast for Dinner
Favorite movie: Titanic
Favorite music: Pop or Hip Hop
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