Jennifer Kopenitz is a huge asset to the women’s swimming team, according to coach Brooks Teal. Kopenitz is from Limerick, Pa., and got an early start at swimming.

“When I was 4 years-old, I would always swim in this lake up in Canada; I went to a camp up there,” Kopenitz, a freshman in First Year College, said. “One of the aquatics directors just started to teach me how to swim. I went home and asked my parents to join the YMCA and I just got my start there.”

Since she has been swimming from such a young age, Kopenitz has already accomplished so much, including being named an All-American from 2004-2006 in high school. Yet, she said she doesn’t let the intense training pile on and burn her out.

“My parents never forced me to go to practice, so it’s just me, and I love the sport,” Kopenitz said. “I never get tired of it.”

In high school, Kopenitz attended a school that she said has an intense swimming program. As co-captain of the swimming team her senior year, Kopenitz said she never let the hype get to her head.

“I would practice two times a day, everyday and I would have practices on Saturday and Sunday,” Kopenitz said. “There were so many great swimmers, so everyone just kept each other humble.”

Kopenitz was drawn to N.C. State during a recruitment trip, and said she fell in love with the team.

“They had such a great team bond, and I just really wanted to be a part of it,” Kopenitz said. “Plus, I really liked the coaches.”

Since Kopenitz has been at State, she has quickly found her place in the lineup. She exhibits a strong work ethic and positive attitude, according to Teal.

“We’re excited to have her on the team,” Teal said. “She’s already a leader on the team, and I think the sky’s the limit.”

Kopenitz said she doesn’t limit her expectations and is always working hard on improving her times. Her goal for this season is to final in the ACC within the top eight in the 200-meter backstroke and 400-meter individual medley, according to Teal.

“I know that one of her major goals is to qualify for Olympic trials, which is this summer,” Teal said. “I think that is definitely within her reach.”

With such high individual expectations, Kopenitz said she still enjoys being part of a team. One of her favorite events is the relays.

“You’re swimming for more than yourself [in the relays],” Kopenitz said. “Just knowing that you’re swimming for three other people, it makes you swim faster and give it your all.”

Kopenitz said she has adjusted well to the other women on the team and has already formed close bonds.

“I just love every girl on the team; we all get along really well,” Kopenitz said. “We’re all behind each other all the time.”