Athlete Spotlight: Anna Despain

Anna Despain ‘18 has been involved in swimming since she was very young, proving her talent and determination on the South Salem record board since she was a freshman. In 2015 she broke the women’s school record for 100 backstroke, 200 freestyle, and the 400 medley relay. In her 2016 Saxon swimming season, she continued to put her name on the board, beating the record for the 200 independent medley, 100 butterfly, 500 freestyle, and the 200 medley relay events. As a Junior, Despain is the most noted name on the Saxon Women’s record board for swimming.
“Swimming has played a big role in my life for many years, ever since I was young. I love what I do,” Despain said.
Despain’s family is also very important to her, she credits her parents and coaches as her biggest supporters in pursuing her love for swimming.  
“My parents and my coaches are the most influential. My parents are always the ones cheering for me and my coaches are always pushing me and helping me get better.”
Anna herself is a cheerleader when it comes to her family and siblings. Despain’s younger sister Rachel Despain ‘19 has been motivated and inspired by her older sister since they were young. The sisters share their love for music in South Salem High School’s Symphonic Choir.
“Anna has always cheered me on and been one of my biggest supporters. In her career of swimming and school I try to support her too. She’s a really good sister,” Rachel Despain ‘19 said.