Swimmer signs with UW

An All-State Lady Wolves swimmer intends to continue competing in the pool, signing on with the University of Wyoming's swim team.

Avery Otto recently signed her letter of intent to compete for the Cowgirls swimming and diving team. Otto, a senior at Green River High School, has had a very successful four years in the pool. During her last season, Otto took the state championship in the 100 butterfly and set conference records in the 100 butterfly and 50 freestyle, also setting a state record in the 50 freestyle. She also was on the relay teams setting conference and school records in the 200-medley relay and 200-freestyle relay.

Otto said she chose UW after visiting the campus and meeting with the coaches. While she could have walked on to a smaller college swim team and quickly establish herself as a top swimmer, Otto said she wants to improve and become even better.

"I just wanted to be challenged," Otto said.

Her coach, Colleen Seiloff, said she thinks UW will be a great fit for Otto, saying Otto has worked hard to get to the level she's at and the program at UW will help her improve.

"I think it was a great choice," Seiloff said.

During a previous interview with the Green River Star, Otto said she first fell in love with the sport after watching the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Otto has swam for six years, first starting with the Lincoln Middle School swim team. While her final season at GRHS has recently wrapped up, Otto started competing for Green River's USA Swim Club this week.