Emily Jandacek
I've been part of the PCY family for as long as I can remember. I started swimming with the PCY Tigersharks when I was about six years old, and I like to joke that I was swimming before I was even born—my mom was still swimming laps with my twin sister and me right up until the day we were born, so I guess you could say I was born a fish...or maybe a mermaid!
After swimming with the Tigersharks through high school, I took a little break before dabbling in Masters while attending the University of Cincinnati. About ten years ago, I found my way back to PCY Masters, and it's become an important part of my life ever since.
Like many swimmers, I've had my share of challenges. I've taken time away from the pool over the years because of back and shoulder injuries, and I'm currently working through a small rotator cuff tear. Thankfully, I'm still able to swim, even if I've had to put butterfly on hold for a while. I also had the opportunity to do some coaching in 2021, which gave me a whole new appreciation for the sport.
What keeps bringing me back is how swimming makes me feel. There's something incredibly calming about being in the water—counting strokes, focusing on my breathing, and working on my technique. It's almost meditative. Swimming alongside a motivated group also helps keep me accountable, and that's one of the things I love most about PCY Masters.
Monday practices are my favorite because I consider myself a distance freestyler. If there's a mile on the workout, I'm happy! Freestyle has always been my stroke of choice. I don't have much love for backstroke, and while I really enjoy butterfly, I'm giving my shoulder the time it needs to heal before jumping back into it.
One of the biggest reasons I love this team is the people. Being part of a supportive group is incredibly motivating. Mike has been my coach for 35 years, and he's a very special person in my life. Stacey is also an amazing coach and person, and I truly believe PCY Masters is fortunate to have both of them. I also enjoy swim meets, even though I'm taking a break from competing while my shoulder recovers.
Most weeks you'll find me swimming on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday whenever my schedule allows. I especially love starting my Saturdays with practice. By 8:00 a.m., I've already accomplished something meaningful, and it's a great way to begin the weekend.
I don't think I'm especially good at a lot of things, but swimming is one thing that always makes me feel confident. I'm not the fastest swimmer in the pool, and that's okay. I swim because it makes me feel good, and that's what keeps me coming back.