In Her Words: Breeja Larson
Olympic Gold Medalist. USA Champion. NCAA Champion. SEC Champion. Big 12 Champion. Texas A&M graduate.
Few people embody the Spirit of Aggieland like Breeja Larson, who came to Texas A&M as a lightly-recruited swimming recruit out of Mesa, Ariz. Aggie head coach Steve Bultman, however, saw something special in the tall breaststroker. Once on the Texas A&M campus, Larson became a virtually unstoppable force in the pool. She remains the SEC and Big 12 Conference record holder in the 100- and 200-yard breaststrokes, and she also owns the NCAA, American and U.S. Open record in the 100-yard breaststroke.
A 2014 graduate with a degree in psychology, Larson remains in College Station preparing for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro with Coach Bultman and the Aggies.
What brought you to Texas A&M?
Steve Bultman, the Texas A&M women’s swim coach. I heard only good things about him, and when I took a recruiting trip here I felt like I could trust him right away with my career, and A&M Campus felt like home. After 24 hours on my visit I felt like I was a student and never wanted to leave.
What was your experience like once you got here?
It was very exciting, but overwhelming! Campus was huge, I was lost more than half the time, but all the students were so friendly and helpful in directing me to the right buildings for class. But it definitely took a while to adjust.
What was a normal day for you?
Wake up at 5:30am for 6-8am swim practice, then 8-9:45ish weight room work out ... Eat as much breakfast as possible before morning classes ... Study and eat as much lunch as possible before afternoon practice ... Fit in a 20-30 minute nap if possible anywhere on campus with a couch, usually the MSC or the Nye Academic Center ... 3:15-5:15 swim practice ... Go home and go on a run with my fiancé, Taylor, or dog, Cooper ... Eat as much dinner as possible and study until I fall asleep, then go to bed.
What all were you involved in while at A&M?
I was involved with SAAC (Student Athlete Advisory Committee). I did volunteer opportunities when they became present (Big Event, Hard Hats for Little Heads, Elementary carnivals, etc.)
What was your favorite memory from Aggieland?
One of my favorite memories while at A&M was winning our Big 12 Conference meet, and celebrating doing belly flops in the pool along with Steve and Tanica (Jamison) (our swim coaches).
How did your time at A&M shape you as a person?
I've learned a lot of life lessons throughout college and I'm still learning. But I'm very thankful that I got to learn them at Texas A&M. A&M and Steve Bultman have given me the opportunity to succeed and have opened doors that could lead to many possible career outlets and I'm excited to try out some.
What type of accomplishments did you earn at A&M?
For one, I got a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology which I am very proud of. I’ve broken a couple of American and school records, was part of an Olympic gold medal winning relay.
How is it to look back on your time at A&M as a female athlete, and seeing the progress of where it is today?
I think women's athletics at A&M are becoming stronger, having a more powerful presence among the student body, and I think it’s great! I hope that all female athletes act the part of a good, strong, independent role model for all future lady Ag athletes, and young women in the community who look up to them.