From early mornings at the pool to international podiums, this month’s Athlete of the Month, Clare Watson, has built a swimming career defined by discipline, joy, and an unwavering sense of community. A Mercer Island High School alum and current collegiate swimmer, Clare’s journey began at just seven years old—long before state records and national teams were even a consideration.

Introduced to swimming through early lessons and inspired by watching her older brother train, Clare quickly found herself drawn to the sport. What started as a childhood activity soon became a defining part of her life. By the time she joined the MIHS swim program, swimming had become more than competition—it was a place of belonging.

“The sense of community I gained through high school swimming is a huge reason I’ve stayed in the sport,” Clare reflects. “My teammates became lifelong friends, and I looked forward to seeing them every day at practice.” That camaraderie, paired with the structure of representing her school and traveling for meets, helped prepare her for the realities of collegiate athletics.

The MIHS swim program played a pivotal role in shaping Clare’s development, both as an athlete and as a teammate. Coaches Jennie and Chauntelle, who guided her throughout her high school career, left a lasting impact with their encouraging, athlete-first approach. “They contributed so much to the program and to me personally,” she says. “I’m incredibly grateful to have had them.”

That foundation carried Clare into a demanding college recruiting process. With the support of coaches and friends, she navigated visits and conversations while keeping one priority in mind: finding a school that balanced academics and athletics. When she visited Stanford, the decision became clear. “The team was so fun and inviting—it was a place I could truly see myself.”

Now immersed in college-level swimming, Clare’s training has intensified. With multiple daily practices, weight sessions, and year-round competition, the structure is more focused and specialized than high school. She thrives in butterfly events—the 100 and 200—drawn to the stroke’s technical demands and constant opportunity for improvement.

Clare’s resumé is already remarkable. She has made the Canadian Junior National Team three years in a row, traveling internationally to compete in Israel, Romania, and Australia. At the World Junior Championships in Romania, she placed fifth in the 100-meter butterfly. Closer to home, she broke the state record in the 100 butterfly and was named Swimmer of the Meet at the state championships—career-defining moments she holds with pride.

Yet, through highs and lows, Clare’s mindset remains grounded. “One bad race doesn’t define me,” she says. Leaning on teammates and friends has helped her navigate setbacks, reinforcing the importance of connection beyond the pool.

Looking ahead, Clare’s goals are bold: earning a spot on Team Canada’s Senior National Team and ultimately competing at the LA 2028 Olympic Games. Still, how she hopes to be remembered is simple—“as someone who lifted others up and made practice fun.”

For current MIHS swimmers dreaming of the next level, Clare’s advice is clear: show up every day, put in the work, and never forget to enjoy the sport. After all, as she says best, MIHS swimming is family—and that sense of joy is what keeps her flying forward, one butterfly stroke at a time.