In Their Own Words - Postcard from Ally Wharton - University of Akron Athletics

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AKRON, Ohio - We continue updates from across the country and the world in what we like to call Postcards from The Zips. Up next, from women's swimming and diving is Akron senior Ally Wharton (New Albany, Ohio).

Where are you currently?
I'm in California working on a practicum.

If you went home, talk about the importance of having your family around as we went through quarantine?
As I was hesitant to go home (Columbus) and live with my parents again, it took me back to my roots. It's nice getting a hug from my dad every day and a home-cooked meal when they get off work early. My dad and I tease each other back and forth and it's nice to have someone who understands my humor and not take it personally. I forgot how much fun I can have at home.

Can you describe what it has means to be a Zip, especially during this time?
In this time of uncertainty being a Zip makes me have something to look forward to at the end of all this. It means that I have others counting on me to do my part in the classroom and with my fitness ability.

How are you feeling knowing that you'll be back on campus soon?
Super EXCITED! While things may not be the same as before, I will get to see my teammates and experience my last year of undergrad.

What is daily life has been like knowing that you have been expected to stay inside?
Tough, I'm a person who loves the outdoors and working-out with other individuals who push me to be the best version of myself. In not being able to see them, it has been a little discouraging.

Discuss your feelings as the events were occurring that ultimately led to the cancellation of spring sports and you returning home or quarantining in Akron?
We swam our championship meet so all we had left was the postseason. While it's sad to see some of the individuals take the extra year and decide not to graduate with my class, I get it. As for my season, it's a much-needed mental break from the sport to refresh my love for it.

What are some of the things you have been doing lately to maintain and/or build your fitness for the anticipated return of sports this fall?
I have been running and doing weight sessions. Running has put blisters on the bottoms of my feet and so I'm glad that swimming has started up in my hometown.

Favorite summertime activities?
Surfing, swimming, hiking and going to the lake (Portage)

What are some shows or movies that you have enjoyed watching while in quarantine?
The Lucky One (my favorite movie), TV shows: Longmire and The Magnolians

What was your favorite class you took this past year or during your time at Akron?
Exercise Leadership (Stephanie Davis)

Discuss your communication with your teammates around the world and back here in Ohio during this time?
We have team zoom meetings along with class zoom meetings. As a class going into our senior year, we are trying to make the freshman feel welcome, so we set up zoom meeting with them as well. Everyone gives updates as to where they are at in their training.

Is there a lesson(s) that you have learned during quarantine that will help you as we move forward towards the new normal with the return of classes and sports?
Be more confident in myself and my abilities. Don't let individuals take advantage because I am worth so much more than the people who don't appreciate me.

The University of Akron Athletics

In Their Own Words - Postcard from Ally Wharton

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