Our athletes running for the Niagara Junior Athlete Representative!

Veronika Puzanovova from Buffalo Area Aquatic Club

How many years have you been in the sport: 7 years

Why do you love the sport: I love swimming because of the countless friendships it has given me and all the memories I have been able to make with my teammates and coaches. Swimming has taught me what it's like to work hard to meet goals, while still being able to have fun.

Leadership Experience: I am on two athlete committees in Niagara, was captain of my high school swim team, and have attended leadership summits affiliated with my school.        

Favorite Event: 200 IM and 200 Back

Why would you be a good representative for Niagara LSC athletes? I would love to advocate for all of my teammates, as well as my friends on other teams.

Any additional things you would like to share of why you would be a good fit for the position: I'm good at communicating and coming up with new ideas for events and things to be done within Niagara.

Abby Ferrari from Fairport Area Swim Team

How many years have you been in the sport: 10 years

Why do you love the sport: I love competing and working hard during practices! The community is also amazing!!

Leadership Experience: I have ran swim lesson groups alone. I help to teach the kids how to swim, while keeping it fun for them and ensuring their safety! I’ve learned how to think and solve problems on the spot!             

Favorite event: 100 and 200 back    

Why would you be a good representative for Niagara LSC athletes? I think I could give different feedback. I’m a very busy student along with being a dedicated athlete, so I think I could offer a different perspective.

Any additional things you would like to share of why you would be a good fit for the position: I would be very passionate about helping and I would ask my team members and other athletes if they have any suggestions!

Ben Hinds from Webster Bluefins

How many years have you been in the sport: 8 years

Why do you love the sport: Swimming has built my most important friendships. I love the energy of practice, pushing each other, and the feeling of cheering on teammates. Being able to share that with the younger athletes is incredibly rewarding.

Leadership Experience: My passion for swimming extends beyond the pool. I regularly volunteer at meets, serve on Niagara Committees, and mentor younger swimmers in my club and at school.  Working alongside my dad, a coach and Niagara official, has fueled my interest in the leadership aspects of the sport. At McQuaid, I'm dedicated to guiding underclassmen and sharing my experience with middle school athletes.            

Favorite Event: Breaststroke ... or all of them!

Why would you be a good representative for Niagara LSC athletes? I'm not just a swimmer, I'm dedicated to the entire Niagara LSC community. My experience working with younger athletes, volunteering at meets, and my eagerness to learn about LSC governance demonstrate my desire to give back. I'm organized, a clear communicator, and ready to collaborate with both athletes and the Board. My goal is to ensure every athlete's voice is heard, and they have the resources and support to thrive.

Any additional things you would like to share of why you would be a good fit for the position: Beyond my commitment to athlete representation, I bring a collaborative spirit and a strong desire to understand the inner workings of the LSC.  I'm confident that together, we can create a thriving environment where every Niagara swimmer has a voice.

Dominic Falbo Fairport Area Swim Team

How many years have you been in the sport: 8 years

Why do you love the sport: I love swimming because it's evolved beyond just a sport for me, it's now my passion and way of life. Every time I swim, I'm challenged to exceed my own limits, pushing myself further than I thought possible. Additionally, swimming has connected me with a whole community of like-minded individuals, gifting me with lifelong bonds that go beyond the pool. It's not just an activity I do, swimming has become an integral part of my identity, fueling my growth and shaping me in countless ways.

Leadership Experience: Niagara BoD At-Large Athlete Rep, Active member of the Niagara Swimming Tech Planning committee, Recipient of the state-wide 2023 NYSCLSA Outstanding Student Leader Award for recognizing all sports teams in a way that shines light on all student athletes through my self run sports account @barstool.canandaigua, 2023 Canandaigua girls swimming & diving team manager, student government, varsity team captain, assistance in organizing school events including the mental health walk, etc

Favorite Event: 200 & 500 Freestyle

Why would you be a good representative for Niagara LSC athletes? I believe my extensive leadership experience and firsthand involvement in swimming makes me a strong candidate for the Junior Athlete Representative role in the Niagara LSC. Having served as the At-Large Athlete Representative, I've actively advocated for changes to enhance the athlete experience within Niagara Swimming. My dedication to championing athletes' needs remains strong, and I'm committed to continuing this advocacy and beyond as Junior Athlete Representative. Additionally, I take on leadership roles at my high school Canandaigua Academy, actively participating in student government, running a sports account dedicated to recognizing and supporting every Canandaigua athlete and team, and serving as a team manager for the 2023 girls varsity swimming & diving team. On top of that, I was honored with the state-wide 2023 NYSCLSA award for Outstanding Student Leadership, which showcases my commitment to excellence and further validates my ability to lead effectively. With my deep understanding of the sport and passion for promoting athlete’s needs, I'm confident I can effectively represent my peers and contribute meaningfully to the progress of Niagara Swimming.