Dear Artistic Swimming,

Saying goodbye feels like closing a chapter I never imagined would end. From the first time I stepped into the water in Florida, to the final moments in Texas with my teammates beside me, you've been more than a sport, you've been a part of who I am.

When I began this journey, I never could have predicted where it would lead. I was part of the very first competitive team in my university's history- a leap of faith that turned into a legacy. What started with just five swimmers grew into a family of twenty, and I'm so proud to have helped build that foundation. We created something from nothing and that will always be one of my proudest accomplishments. Over four years of collegiate competition, I've grown not only as an athlete, but as a leader, a teammate, and a person. I've learned the discipline of 6 a.m. practices, the joy and excitement of competing with high level athletes, and the power and inspiration that comes from supporting and being supported by those who share the same dream. Now, as I step away from the pool deck, I do so with a heart full of gratitude. I'm grateful for the coaches, teammates, friends, and family who believed in me. I'm grateful for the hard days that taught me resilience, and the beautiful days that reminded me why I started in the first place.

Artistic swimming will always be part of me.

Thank you for everything.

With love,  
Bella