Oftentimes, numerous high school athletes tend to hang up their cleats or put away their goggles as they retire from their sport once high school concludes; many feel that entering college as both an athlete and a student is an arduous task. However, senior Paige Griggs is not afraid of the challenge and has proven both her academic and athletic prowess as she is preparing to succeed as a college athlete.

Griggs has recently announced that she will be furthering her academic and athletic career as a member of the swim team at Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania, where she will be studying chemical engineering.

“I chose Lafayette because of the stellar academics the school offers as well as the great swim program,” Griggs said. “Both Coach Dailey and the swimmers have been really welcoming and there is a great team atmosphere.”

Growing up as a competitive swimmer, Griggs has always set goals for herself both in and out of the pool. She has been swimming since the age of seven and has been a part of the competitive SVY swim team as well as its state team for the past 3 years. In addition to her travel team accomplishments, she has also been an asset to the Hillsborough High School varsity swim team since her freshman year; she has helped the Raiders earn 3 sectional championships in a row as well as been part of the state team for the past two years. Additionally, Griggs raced at the New Jersey Meet of Champions during both her sophomore and junior seasons.

Her best times include:

• 500 free – 5:15.74
• 1000 free – 10:48.94
• 1650 free – 18:10.70

Griggs will add valuable freestyle depth to the Lafayette Leopards roster next fall as her best time in the 500, 1000, and 1650 would’ve ranked third on their lineup last season.

Swim has been a significant part of Grigg’s life as it has taught her several life lessons. A particular lesson Griggs has learned is setting goals for herself. In swim, she pushes herself to do the best she can. Similarly, in the classroom, Griggs pushes herself to succeed in her studies. In addition to swimming, Griggs also enjoys playing with her dog, reading, running, and baking.

When asked who she would like to thank for support throughout her swim career, Griggs said: “I want to thank my coaches, my parents, and especially my teammates for always supporting me and believing in me and helping me through all of the struggles and successes in my swimming career.”

Griggs is set to be successful at Lafayette as she has proven that she is both a dedicated swimmer and student.