Hard work really does pay off.

For the first time in my 8 years of swimming, I'm not only going to districts, I'm going to states.

States.

At State College with thousands of people.

I remember you saying at the beginning of the season, "I think this relay team can qualify for districts, and place at states. I really do."

I doubted it so much. But I remember thinking inside, man, I really hope we do.

And look where I'm standing now.

The top 9 go on, and we placed 10th. I was bummed, but let it go. Thought, oh, it doesn't matter if we don't go.

But then that relay team got disqualified.

"You guys are going. Go get your awards!"

Don't assume things too quickly. Don't jump to conclusions right away.

Don't stop believing.