Landmark Conference Friday Focus: Sydney Patterson

Note: This story was originally featured on the Landmark Conference's official website on February 20.

The Landmark Conference is full of talented student-athletes and the "Friday Focus" is just one way fans can get to know them. This week the conference introduces Sydney Patterson (Dallas, Texas/Woodrow Wilson), Goucher women's swimmer.

Patterson is a junior distance free and butterfly swimmer for the Gophers. Just last weekend, Patterson wrapped up her third season with the Gophers at the Landmark Championships where she reached the podium in the 800 freestyle relay. She is also serving as co-President of the Goucher Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and she is a member of the Landmark SAAC.

Sydney Patterson
Junior, Women's Swimming
Dallas, Texas/Woodrow Wilson
Major: Sociology

Why did you choose to attend Goucher?
I chose Goucher because it is a place I had the opportunity to explore many subjects and get involved in a small community.

What does it mean to you to be a NCAA Division III student-athlete?
Being a NCAA Division III student-athlete, I have been allowed to excel as a full-time student in the classroom, compete in swimming, and be involved in various organizations as a part of Goucher's community. Being able to participate in different things has allowed me to create a unique college experience that is not too one sided.

What has been the greatest part of your experience as a college athlete so far?
The greatest part of my experience as a college athlete is being a part of the swim team. It is a unique sport where there is a men's and women's team, yet we practice and compete all together. The different teams have created a supportive environment where we also challenge one another.

Who has been the most influential person during your athletic career? Why?
The most influential people during my athletic career have been my parents. They have always been supportive of me even if they were half way across the country at home. They have have pushed me to do my best but have always respected not pushing me to a point where I would get tired of doing what I was doing.

What do you like most about competing in the Landmark?
I like competing in the Landmark Conference because it is a friendly sports environment while still being competitive.

How did you first get involved in swimming?
I first got involved in swimming the summer before third grade on a summer league team. I joined a team because all my friends did it. I couldn't even swim a lap of backstroke without running into a lane line.

Rapid Fire

Favorite food: Spagetti with meat sauce
Favorite TV show: Law & Order: SVU
Favorite book: Harry Potter series
Favorite movie: Romantic comedies
Favorite class you've taken: Intro to Sociology
Favorite place to visit: Germany
Favorite sport (besides swimming): Baseball
Favorite holiday: Christmas
Can't live without: Cheese