Sierra Schmidt

QUICK STATS

Birthday: May 6th, 1998
Hometown: Erdenheim, PA
Now Resides: Phoenix, AZ
College: The University of Michigan
Height: 5’6’’
Coach: Joseph Schmidt

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

● 5-Time USA National Team Member
(2015-2016, 2017-2018, 2018-2019, 2019-2020, 2020-2021)
● 2015 Pan American Gold Medalist
●Current Pan American Record Holder in the 800 Freestyle (8:27.54)
● 2015 World Junior Championship Gold Medalist in the 800 Freestyle
● 2-time World University Games Bronze Medalist
● 6-Time CSCAA All American
● Member of the 2018 Big Ten Championship Team Title

EXPERIENCE

Sierra began her career in small town Pennsylvania, and has risen through the ranks as a successful swimmer throughout her career.

Though she is known for her pre-race dance routines, Sierra learned at a young age the importance of good technique, as well as the importance of trial and error. Her coaches encouraged her to seek out as much information as she could, and she has been blessed through the years to have the opportunity to meet and talk with successful athletes and coaches.

These resources taught her not only about swimming, but about life as well. It was the advice that senior members of the USA Swimming National team gave her that has pushed her to many accomplishments, including a Pan American Gold Medal.

As she continues her career as a professional swimmer, she is looking to continue that tradition of passing down knowledge to the next generation of swimmers though Fitter and Faster. Sierra will encourage participants to test the limits of their technique, as well as teach swimmers to have fun with
swimming.

“One of the most important things I have learned in swimming is to enjoy the journey. Many people only think about the destination, but enjoy the moments along the way. Enjoy the inside jokes you share with your teammates, the music you listen to during a hard workout, and the anxiety right before you step up to the block in a big meet. You will carry those memories your
whole life,” says Sierra.

“Follow the process of your development. Don’t rush it, and trust that you will make the next step. Make sure to celebrate each step, no matter how small, and be excited to push yourself to the next part of your journey.”

Sierra now lives in Arizona and is looking forward to both continuing her swimming career, and passing down the knowledge she continues to learn to the swimming community.