Student athletes have been impacted in many ways during the COVID-19 pandemic. The next couple of weeks we are going to be highlighting our student-athletes and how they have been coping with the new norm we currently live in. 

This week we feature women's swimmer Mya Jackson. Jackson graduated from West Valley High School in 2019 and has been an invaluable member of the Crafton Hills College women's swim team. "It's a privilege having Mya on our team,'' states head coach Courtney Eads. "She has a tendency to push up the speed and her success has brought positive attention to the Crafton Hills swim program."

Jackson was having a successful season prior to the season shutting down. In addition to her multiple dual and invitational wins, she also broke the Mt. SAC Invitational meet record in the 50 freestyle. Jackson also brought home the Waterman Pentathlon Women's Championship. 

"I am looking forward to working with Mya for an entire season,' adds coach Eads. "She has all the talent in the world and I am excited to see what she'll do in the conference and state championship level." 

WIth 2021 fast approaching, the Crafton Hills men's and women's program should be in full stride by the time the season starts. Wtth the guidance from coach Eads and her staff, keep your eye on this upcoming program. 

How are you doing and how have you been keeping up with your training?
[Jackson] Everyone is healthy in my house. We try to be extremely careful given the current pandemic situation.  My training is limited currently to dryland.  I do the work outs sent by the coaches and go to the gym when I can.  In the last several months I have gone to my club team to swim a few times, but it is a 100 mile round trip drive so that is limited.

What has been the biggest challenge during this lock down?
[Jackson] The biggest challenge is not swimming on a regular basis and not having any competition. I was .3 off the Olympic trial time and now that dream is probably gone because there is no consistent training and no upcoming competitions.

How much has the shut down of sports impacted you this year?early.
[Jackson] I had a goal to reach the state championship while representing Crafton HIlls College. Unfortunately, due to the season being cut short two months early, that all took a pause until 2020. I'm looking forward to reaching those goals next season.

As a student-athlete, with hopes of playing elsewhere, has this impacted your eligibility and or your ability to transfer to a 4 year?
[Jackson] Absolutely. My goal is to transfer to a four-year college and since we haven't been in the pool, I have not been able to showcase my ability. As the saying goes, you are only as good as your last performance.

How has your administration, including coaches kept you informed with the constant changes coming from the CCCAA.
[Jackson] Yes, the CCCAA has kept us informed. However, it's a bit disappointing that other schools have been able to practice but yet we are still waiting.

Do you have a daily routine to stay in shape, if so, what are you doing?
[Jackson] I have been eating healthy and also do quite a bit of cardio workout.

What do you miss most about not being on campus and around your teammates?
[Jackson] I definitely miss the human interaction. In addition to being around a team atmosphere, I miss swimming in general and of course competition.

What is one thing you have grown to appreciate more during this time?
[Jackson] I try not to take anything for granted, especially how this world has changed. During this time, I have grown to appreciate my family and friends that I am able to see.

What are you most looking forward to in 2021?
[Jackson] I look forward to the world getting back to normal and how it used to be. I also miss the freedom that has been taken away.