"Howard University is the only historically Black college and university (HBCU) with a Division I swimming and diving team. Swimming as a sport is dominated by white athletes. Statistically, African Americans have a higher rate of drowning incidents.
For both reasons, the Howard team is aware that its role is three-fold: to be good athletes, role models for other aspiring African American swimmers, and reach out to communities where swimming pools and lessons are inaccessible to help reduce drowning among minorities. It is now the lone pipeline of high-caliber competitive Black swimmers who also want to attend an HBCU.
The response from this article has been astounding. Other news outlets, including Sports Illustrated, have written their own versions. Production companies have called to create documentaries and a film about the team as well."
From the Judges
This nomination presents a fascinating read that uses a mix of history, narrative, and action to tell a story that is both engaging and informative. One of the highlights of this piece is how the writer includes a variety of voices in the story, allowing readers to hear from a range of perspectives. In addition, the writer uses this fact as a springboard for weaving in data about Black children, swimming, and the legacy of segregation, which expands the story into the realm of public health.
