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2024-25 Swimming Roster

Kelly Bird, Linfield Sports Communications
Kelly Bird, Linfield Sports Communications
Kelly Bird, Linfield Sports Communications
Kelly Bird, Linfield Sports Communications
Kelly Bird, Linfield Sports Communications
Kelly Bird, Linfield Sports Communications
Kelly Bird, Linfield Sports Communications
Kelly Bird, Linfield Sports Communications
Kelly Bird, Linfield Sports Communications
Andrew Lee, Linfield Sports Communications

Ivan Tontchev

  • Events Freestyle, Breast
  • Year Sophomore
  • Hometown Grants Pass, Ore.
  • Previous School University of Oregon
  • Major Accounting & Wine Studies

Biography

FRESHMAN
First-Team All-NWC honors in the 400 medley relay.
Swam a personal-best in the 50 freestyle with a time of 22.30 at the NWC Championships February 9.
Second-place finisher at PLU in the 100 breaststroke with a time of 1:02.91 on January 19.
Nabbed sixth place in the 100 breaststroke with a personal-best time of 58.15 at the NWC Championships on February 10.
Top-ten finisher at the NWC Championships in the 200 breaststroke with a personal-best time of 2:11.85 on February 11.
Secured a first-place finish in the 200 medley relay with at team-time of 1:38.10 at Willamette on January 27.
Swam a team-time of 3:36.16 in the 400 medley nabbing a first-place finish at home on January 26.
 
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Majoring in Accounting and Wine Studies.
Son to Dimitar and Nina.
Graduated from Grants Pass High School.
Attended University of Oregon for one year prior to Linfield.
 
WHAT ARE THE REASONS YOU CHOSE TO ATTEND LINFIELD? I decided to attend Linfield University because of the excellent balance it offered between strong academics and a vibrant sports program.
 
WHAT DOES BEING A STUDENT-ATHLETE AT LINFIELD MEAN TO YOU? Being a student-athlete who focuses on swimming is a unique and rewarding experience. It means that I not only excel in the pool, pushing my physical limits to become the best swimmer I can be, but I also prioritize my academic studies. The discipline required in the water carries over to my approach to academics. Balancing intense training sessions with a rigorous class schedule can be challenging, but it's incredibly fulfilling. Swimming has taught me the value of time management, dedication, and perseverance, both in and out of the pool. It's not just about personal achievements; it's about representing my university and team with pride and integrity.
 
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS? In the next 10 years, I see myself achieving great things. I'll have a master's degree and a fulfilling career, all while enjoying a balanced, healthy life. My passion for swimming will lead me to an Olympic gold medal in the 100m breaststroke. Alongside these achievements, a loving family will provide support and happiness. This vision represents a bright and optimistic future where dreams come true.
 
THE GREATEST PRINCIPLE OR LESSON THAT I’VE LEARNED WHILE COMPETING IN ATHLETICS AT LINFIELD HAS BEEN… I believe that true power doesn't come to the strongest, richest, or smartest, but to those who are willing to sacrifice and do whatever it takes to achieve their goals.