Sierra Schmidt, born on June 5, 1998 in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a talented freestyle swimmer who has made a name for herself in the competitive swimming world. Growing up in Erdenheim, Pennsylvania, Sierra's passion for swimming was evident from a young age. With a mother who was a standout athlete in track and field and cross country, and a father who also competed in collegiate sports, Sierra's athletic genes were undeniable.
Sierra's journey to becoming a top-tier swimmer began at the University of Michigan, where she excelled both in the pool and in the classroom. As a six-time CSCSAA All-American and a Big Ten champion in the 800 free relay, Sierra made a name for herself as a force to be reckoned with in collegiate swimming. Her dedication to her academics was equally impressive, as she earned recognition as a two-time Big-Ten Distinguished Scholar and a four-time CSCAA Scholar All-American.
Sierra's rise to prominence as a freestyle swimmer came to fruition when she won a gold medal in the 800-meter freestyle at the 2015 Pan American Games. This victory solidified her status as a serious contender in the swimming world and set the stage for her future successes. Qualifying for the U.S. Olympic Trials in both 2016 and 2020, Sierra proved herself to be a consistent and formidable competitor on the national stage.
During the 2020 U.S. Olympic Trials, Sierra's performance was nothing short of remarkable. She finished 6th in the 400 meter freestyle, 8th in the 800 meter freestyle, and 7th in the 1500 meter freestyle, becoming one of only three swimmers to qualify for all three distance finals. Her display of skill and endurance showcased her versatility as a swimmer and solidified her reputation as a rising star in the sport.
Sierra's family has played a significant role in shaping her athletic career. With a mother who was a five-time All-American and four-time Big Ten champion in track and field and cross country at Michigan, and a father who also competed in collegiate sports, Sierra comes from a lineage of athletes who have instilled in her a strong work ethic and competitive drive.
Outside of swimming, Sierra remains connected to her alma mater, the University of Michigan, where she follows in the footsteps of notable alumni such as Chris Webber and Lucy Liu. Her dedication to both her sport and her education serves as a testament to her character and her commitment to excellence in all aspects of her life.
As Sierra continues to make waves in the swimming world, her journey is far from over. With a bright future ahead of her, she stands poised to achieve even greater success and leave an indelible mark on the sport of swimming for years to come.