Athlete of the Week: Anna Phillips

Anna Phillips, 15, has been involved in Sarasota Aquatic Synchronized Swimming at the YMCA (SASSY) since she was in the sixth grade. Now in her fourth season with SASSY, Phillips will compete in the eSynchro U.S. Age Group Synchronized Swimming Championships. The team has 10 girls who will be competing at nationals from June 23 to June 27. Phillips will be competing at nationals for the first time.

How did you get into synchronized swimming?
Three years ago, my friend in sixth grade told me she was going to do this with her friend and she told me to come along with her. She left after the first season, but I stayed on because I liked it a lot.

What is one of your favorite figures?
My favorite figure is a Reverse Catalina, and we are going to get to do that at nationals. You start on your stomach and go into a pike and put one of your legs up into a crane position and then you turn into one of the walls into a “Y” and then you face your head up and turn your body around again into a ballet leg.

How often do you practice?
We practice Monday, Tuesday and Thursday for two-and-a-half hours and Sunday from usually noon to 3 p.m.

Did you have a favorite routine this season?
The second routine, which was a trio. It had a fun beat, and the moves went along with it very well, and it was enjoyable.

What is Knox?
It’s an unflavored gelatin you can buy at any store. You just boil it with hot water and put your hair in a braided bun and use your fingers to rub it on your hair. I really enjoy Knox, nobody else does. I just use a lot of conditioner to get it out.

What is the hardest part about synchronized swimming?
Trying to get up as high as you can and holding your breath for a long time.

What are your hopes for nationals?
To get into the top 10 and compete in top eight.

How many teams will be at nationals?
I heard more than 40 teams.

What is your favorite part about being involved in synchronized swimming?
The people on the team and all the friends I’ve made. Also, the awesome teams you get to see at competitions and friends you make (through synchronized swimming) that you see during the season.