Swimming and Diving

Friday Focus with Aviah Dahlgren

TOWSON, Md. – Every Friday, the Landmark Conference spotlights one of our standout student-athletes in the Friday Focus series. This week’s feature highlights Aviah Dahlgren, a member of the University of Scranton women’s swimming and diving team. From pre-meet Dunkin’ runs to the moments that define team culture, Aviah shares what makes competing with the Royals so special.

Favorite prerace routine or superstition?
My favorite prerace routine would have to be getting Dunkin' Coffee. At home meets, after waking up and swimming, I usually go with a few teammates to Dunkin, which is a good way to take some of the nerves away.

What’s your favorite moment with your team?
It's very hard to just pick one favorite moment with my team because there have been so many. Yet, the one that stands out is when Isabella Kane won a swim-off in the 100 fly at the Landmark Conference meet. The excitement was electric, and watching the whole team celebrate her truly shows how special our team is and how much we support each other.

How do you stay focused during busy weeks?
I stay focused during busy weeks by trying to keep organized, planning out my days, and being present in the moment.

Who’s a teammate that leads by example?
Overall, our team has an incredible dynamic, and everyone is a leader in their own unique way. If I had to highlight one teammate this season, it would be Gianna Horen. Despite facing a few setbacks this season she consistently puts the team first and does so with a positive attitude and a smile every single day. Her dedication and selflessness are truly inspiring for everyone around her!

What does your sport teach you about life?
Swimming has taught me discipline, patience, and the importance of perseverance. Swimming is a sport that demands consistent effort, and progress is not always immediate. Through both successes and setbacks, it is important to stay resilient and have a strong work ethic. These are qualities that you can carry with you in all aspects of life.

Favorite hobby or activity outside of swimming?
Outside of swim, I love hanging out with friends, and I also enjoy running. Last year, I did a half marathon with some of my teammates, which was a lot of fun!

How do you celebrate big wins?
I celebrate big wins with my teammates. Even though swimming is often considered an individual sport, at the college level, the team aspect is so important. Celebrating our successes together and being just as excited for each other as we would be for ourselves is what makes this sport so special.

What will you miss most when your swim career ends?
Swimming has been such a big part of my life that it is difficult to picture my life without it. The friendships I have built and the lessons I have learned have helped me become the person I am today. Saying goodbye to the sport, its physical demands, fun meet days, and challenges will definitely be hard. I think the most difficult aspect will be not spending countless hours with some of the incredible people I have been lucky enough to have shared it with.

What’s your favorite part of race day?
My favorite part of meet day is everyone cheering and being excited for each other! I also enjoy our team cheers and talks before the meet starts!

First sport you ever played?
The first sport I ever did was gymnastics.

Favorite team tradition?
My favorite team tradition is throwing in our lucky ducks before warm-up at home meets!

Favorite moment with fans or family in the stands?
My favorite moments with my family in the stands are seeing them smiling and cheering me on, before and after races! Their support and belief in me make the sport even more meaningful.

Favorite Landmark Conference memory so far?
My favorite Landmark conference memory so far would have to be winning conferences, jumping in the pool at the end of the meet, and celebrating together. The energy and excitement we shared as a team made it an unforgettable moment!