Swimmer signs scholarship
As graduation approaches, Socorro senior Alyssa Higgs is preparing to move on and signed a letter of intent to attend the University of New Mexico after receiving a scholarship and an invitation to compete with the UNM swim team.Higgs decided in January to attend UNM if they would give her some form of scholarship, and the offer was made after she went on a recruiting trip several weeks ago and got to meet the UNM coach and team.
“It takes a tremendous amount of dedication to succeed,” Socorro swim coach Diedra Vinson said. “When you don’t want to work, you have to dig deep and work — and she has always done that. I think going to UNM and being with that wonderful program she will excel and do many wonderful things.”
Higgs plans studies in the medical field of kinesthiology as applied in physical therapy or athletic training.
“I would rather work with people than in an office job,” Higgs said as the reason behind her choice. “And be active.”
Higgs began swimming after her parents, Laura and E.P. Higgs, wanted her to try out the sport at age 6. She joined a swim team at age 7 and won her first state title the next year.
Higgs swims year-round with the Kirtland Aquatic Club, in Albuquerque, and swam with Socorro High School team. The highlight of her time with the SHS team was when the 200-yard freestyle relay placed eighth in the state championships this year.
“We’ve never medaled before in Socorro history,” Higgs said.
“Her dedication to the sport has really paid off,” Vinson said. “We are so going to miss Alyssa. I can’t tell you how proud I am of her.”
With a father who competes in triathlons and a younger sister, Jennell Higgs, who is also a very competitive swimmer, training is a very much a family affair.
“We pretty much all train together and mom supports the team,” Alyssa said.
Soon she will be moving to the new team and the competition will be the best Division 1 swimmers in the nation.
“It’s pretty intense — they’re fast,” Higgs said. “Once I start training with the (UNM) team, though, I think I’ll get where I need to be.”
Higgs expects to compete in mainly distance events as part of the team, such as the individual medley and the 500-yard freestyle.
The UNM team only has a few members from New Mexico, according to Higgs, but most are outgoing and involved in community projects that bring attention to UNM.
“I’d like to thank my parents and Diedra Vinson for supporting me and not giving up on me,” Higgs said.
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