Ashleigh Johnson
In 2016 Johnson was the first African American woman to make the US Olympic water polo team and win gold. Johnson was considered one of the greatest water polo goalies in the world. Her journey began at Princeton, where she held the record for highest all-time career saves at the university. Johnson used her potential as an athlete in the sport to push her further along in her career. Her talent opened the door to impact future athletes in her culture. She stands not only for her culture but for other female athletes in sports. Her social media continues to retweet and highlight athletes featured in various sports, from Olympians to African American swimmers at all levels. Johnson encourages young athletes to continue proving themselves as swimmers and reminds them not to let discrimination stop them from swimming and overcoming. Simultaneously, Johnson continues to train and push the limits while prioritizing mental health. The media responds well to Johnson’s winning and the positive energy she brings to the team. Recently in the media, Ashleigh was posted on Twitter in honor of black history month. The media graciously thanked her for inspiring many future athletes in her same position. She is not only changing the culture of water polo in the United States, but she is changing the world’s view on the sport. As she began playing for the national team, she knew her impact was more significant than ever imagined. Since then, she has served as a sports representative of an organization that spreads awareness about diversity and equity in the sport. The organization’s mission is to elevate voices in the African American community and their involvement in aquatics. This organization encourages unity and involves sharing experiences in a safe environment. The goal is to allow voices to be heard about being an African American in aquatics. This ultimately results in staying true to themselves throughout their experiences in the swimming world.