On Wednesday, April 17, Horizon Honors’s senior Natalie Smith announced her commitment to swim Division 1 (D-1) artistic swimming at The Ohio State. According to Scholarship Stats, only two percent of high school athletes go D-1, so Smith’s accomplishment is monumental. The Horizon Sun is honored to have her for an interview.

The Horizon Sun: How long have you been swimming? Why did you stick with the sport?

Natalie Smith: I have been swimming for 11 years. I am excited to show up to practice every night because of the friendships I have made, and the memories that will last a lifetime. I love competing to show off all the hard work we have done. 

The Sun: Was The Ohio State always the end goal? What made you choose this school?

NS: Ohio State has always been my dream and I’m so excited that my dreams have come true! I chose this school because of the people and their excellence and dedication to the sport.

The Sun: Who were the major supporters that helped you get to this point?

NS: My biggest supporters have always been my team mates/best friends and my coaches. But above all, my family, especially my parents.

The Sun: What are you most excited about for these upcoming four years?

NS: I am so excited to experience collegiate synchro, since it is a completely different experience than club. I’m so excited for girls from different clubs from all over to come together as Buckeyes!

The Sun: What makes artistic swimming such a special sport for you?

NS: Artistic swimming is such a special sport for me because of how expressive it is. You get to choreograph routines that try to match a specific theme or emotion. It is also so much fun swimming with my best friends. 

The Horizon Sun congratulates Smith and is excited to see what she will offer in her collegiate career. Go Buckeyes!!