Rio Sessions has been a top swimmer for more than four years for the Socorro Warriors.
Greg Byrd | El Defensor Chieftain

 

Rio Sessions is a senior swimmer for the 2021-22 Socorro squad.

Question: How long have you been swimming?

Answer: For Socorro it has been five years. But in my career it has been seven or eight years.

Q: What got you into the sport?

A: In all honesty, my parents Sharon and Byron just wanted me to swim over the summer. I hated it that year. And then I somehow just got good at it.

Q: What has your experience with the team been like over the years?

A: I really like being a part of this team. As a swimmer you get an amazing reward after  competing. You can hate it once you’re in the water but going with these guys and gals is unmatched.

Q: What would you tell somebody coming up in the swim game?

A: It is incredibly rewarding. It may not feel like it in the pool, but every time you finish it will amaze you. You might feel like you’re going nowhere and then you look up and see that you cut off 10 seconds on your time a year later.

Q: What is the worst part of swimming

A: The practices and meets are really fast. It can be tough to catch your breath when you’re competing. It’s going and going the entire time.

Q: As a senior, what has been your experience as a part of this Warriors team?

A: It has been unbelievable. As a smaller team it can be hard to compete with the bigger schools. But the in-between moments have really allowed us to bond as a group.

Q: What would you tell your younger self as a senior team leader this year?

A: Always have an open mind. I had issues as a freshman myself. I didn’t realize I would like this sport so much until this year really.

Q: What is your favorite sport that you do not participate in?

A: I’ll go with hockey. It’s just fun to watch. I’ve never participated in it, but I have always enjoyed being on the ice.

Q: What is your favorite Olympic sport? You cannot say swimming.

A: Cross Country running. I have always loved running. The long distance runners have always inspired me.

Q: If you could have dinner with any famous person in history, who would it be?

A: Would have to be a famous author. J.R.R. Tolkien. I’m an aspiring writer myself and I’ve been reading The Lord of the Rings recently. It can be hard to follow at times, but I would love to see what advice Tolkien could give to me.