Athlete Spotlight: Sophia

Each month, we'll get to know one of our STORM athletes.

Meet Sophia

• Name: Sophia Drake

• Age: 11

• How long have you been swimming with STORM? Since STORM began - I am one of the original members!

What first got you into swimming? I always swam since I was a baby; my first lesson with Will Walker was actually when I was 3, then I met Oksana when I was 6, and she encouraged me to swim more.

Training & Progress

• Favourite stroke: Breaststroke

• Currently working towards: I am working to get 40s in breaststroke 50m

• Least favourite part of training: Sprints!

Competitions & Moments

• Favourite race or competition so far: Doha, the first overseas competition STORM took part in

• A moment in swimming that made you feel especially proud: Breaking the Middle East record in BSME

• “I feel like I’m succeeding when…” When my coach tells me I'm doing a good job

Personality

• If you could swim with any famous athlete (swimmer or not!), who would it be? Summer McIntosh or Angharad Evans 

• What’s your go-to song before a race or big session? Unstoppable or Titanium

• Do you have any pre-race rituals or superstitions? Not really, I just warm up.

STORM Experience

• What do you like most about training with STORM? The coaches and team

• How have the coaches helped you get better? The coaches have encouraged me and are always helping me try to be the best I can be. Matt is patient, funny and explains things really well. He makes me believe in myself. Oksana always knows when I can give more and pushes me.

• What’s your favourite memory with your teammates? The overseas trips, they’re fun and everyone supports one another.

Inspiration & Advice

• Who inspires you in sports or life? My family and coaches, they encourage me and help me to be the best version of myself 

• What advice would you give a younger swimmer just starting their journey? Enjoy it all, have fun and make the most of the opportunities you’re given. Never give up