Very few people can claim that they hold a record at their high school. Catherine Bendziewicz, a senior swimmer at Chapin, has 10. Yes, she has broken every record there is to be broken in girls swimming at Chapin High School. The records for the 50yd freestyle, 100yd freestyle, 200yd freestyle, 500yd freestyle, 100yd backstroke, 100yd breaststroke, and 200 individual medley all belong to her. She is also part of the Chapin teams that have set the 200yd freestyle relay, the 200 medley relay, and the 400 freestyle relay.

She’s kind of a big deal.

“I think my favorite record is the 50 freestyle,” said Bendziewicz, when asked which record she valued the most, “Its my favorite event and my best time.”

Her success reaches far beyond Chapin High School. Bendziewicz is the reigning 3A State Champion in the 100 meter freestyle. She is also 4th in the south in the 100 meter freestyle and 7th in the south in the 50 meter freestyle in the 15 to 18 age group. On top of that, Bendziewicz is a two-time USA Swimming Scholastic All-American, an honor that is awarded each year to the top swimmers in the nation.

The success of Bendziewicz has set an example and inspired younger athletes within Chapin’s program to work harder.

“Catherine is a good leader and a good role model for young swimmers,” said Officer Catoe, assistant swim coach at Chapin High School. “Our varsity team goes from seventh grade to seniors so she’s got a lot of younger swimmers, especially female swimmers, who look up to her. She sets a great example, she’s always motivated, and she’s just an awesome leader on the team.”

When asked about her leadership role on the team, Bendziewicz replied, “I’m happy to represent my school the best I can and I like that I’m able to lead the team. It’s an honor.”

Although Bendziewicz has already collected plenty of awards, she’s far from done. She looks forward to the upcoming State Championship, where she will be viewed as the overwhelming favorite in every event she participates in. She already has college offers from many schools, including South Carolina and Arizona State, and is excited for the opportunity to compete at the next level.

In future years, Bendziewicz looks to compete for a spot on the US Olympic team. Her future is bright, but regardless of what happens next Bendziewicz’s extraordinary combination of attitude and accomplishments will leave a lasting legacy at Chapin High School.