By Paul Vozzella
Hometown Weekly Sports Reporter
Coast-to-coast Ava Yablonski has proven she is one of the top collegiate swimmers in the country. As a member of the University of Minnesota’s swim team, the Sherborn native recently competed in the NCAA Championship in Federal Way, Washington.
The 2022 Dover-Sherborn graduate finished 30th overall in the 100-yard backstroke (51.88) and 38th overall in the 200-yard backstroke (1:54.34) at nationals.
Yablonski qualified for nationals following a terrific performance at the BIG10 Championship. She recorded a new school record in the 100-yard backstroke event (51.63) and topped her own backstroke record in the 400-yard medley (51.61). The results earned her a podium finish and spot at nationals in both events.
The junior Golden Gopher also recorded a personal best in the 200-yard backstroke (1:53.69). The time was good enough for a tenth place finish and spot in the NCAA Championship for the event, as well.
“It was very exciting,” said Yablonski on her strong performance. “It was my first podium finish at BIG10’s, so it was very special to me.”
Getting to the biggest stage was no fluke either. After falling short of her goals in her sophomore season, Yablonski had a sit down conversation with her coach and made a set of goals to accomplish in her junior season. To meet them, she made a sacrifice she felt was essential in finding success. The sprint swimmer stayed in Minnesota over the summer to work on her craft.
“[Being] homesick was a big thing. That was my first summer here training. Usually a lot of people stay to train for the long-course season so we stay in shape before our next school season… I’m glad I did it. I think if I went home, I wouldn’t have taken it as seriously.”
Clearly the extra work paid off as she made her way to the biggest collegiate stage in her sport. Ironically, getting to that point was not something she was aiming for heading into the season. Focusing more on her day-to-day routine, Yablonski wanted to ensure she put 100% of her effort into every practice and meet during the regular season.
Despite heavy competition taking place in practice for a spot to represent the University of Minnesota in the BIG10 Championship, she attributes a lot of her success to teammates and as a reason she was able to qualify for the NCAA Championship.
“Throughout the season, we’re all competing against each other… I wouldn’t say it’s a challenge knowing we’re all competing against each other. We’re a very supportive team, so no matter what the selection is, we’re all happy for each other.”
Taking the same approach as she did last offseason, Yablonski has a stronger mindset and new goals heading into her senior year. This time, a trip back to nationals is on the forefront of her mind.
