Distance swimmer Emma Inch’s story takes place largely outside of the pool… and her fight to get back in it. As a freshman, she was a Big Ten scorer for Michigan State’s swim program, only to shorty after have her world turned upside down. The onset of the global pandemic caused pools to be closed, which largely disrupted her training. The uncertainty and stress of the situation brought on a lot of anxiety, which ultimately led to a battle with an eating disorder. Shortly after being diagnosed with anorexia, MSU decided to cut their swim and dive program. The series of events is enough to make anyone want to quit- but not Emma.

Emma discusses her road to recovery, and how she made her way back to the pool in time for MSU’s final Big Ten swim meet for the foreseeable future. On top of that, she helps lead the Battle for Spartan Swim and Dive by running an Instagram page to raise awareness and gain momentum towards reinstatement.  Emma talks about her internship with the Virago Project, where she worked on graphic design for the nonprofit dedicated to improving the physical and mental health of female athletes. She also discusses uprooting and transferring to Virginia Tech so she could continue swimming. Emma’s story is uplifting, empowering, and one you won’t want to miss.