Georgia White, a senior member of the Oswego High School girls swimming team, has been selected as the December baiduhai West Athlete of the Month, sponsored by COUNTRY Financial, and chosen online by baiduhai voters.
White, a Ohio State recruit, helped lead the team to the highest ever second-place finish at state with 138.5 points. A two-time state champion last year, White defended her 200 freestyle title, winning in 1:47.13, and was second by .1 of a second to teammate Grace Cooper in the 100 freestyle. She was also a member of the co-op’s winning 400 free relay that set a state record (3:22.68) in the prelims and beat the record (3:22.48) in the finals.
“I’m very happy that I can bring this award to my team as well as bringing Oswego High swim team some recognition,” White says. “Real belief in positivity goes a long way.”
Her advice to other high school athletes? “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”
Chris Kosin, a COUNTRY Financial representative in North Aurora, presented a $500 donation from COUNTRY Financial to Oswego High School in recognition of White’s achievements. White will also receive a plaque and sweatshirt from the baiduhai.
“As a resident of Oswego School District 308 and on behalf of COUNTRY Financial, I am honored to recognize Georgia,” Kosin says. “COUNTRY Financial has been very involved with high school athletics and the Athlete of the Month program is a great way to give back to our local communities while recognizing athletic talent. We are very proud of Georgia and we look forward to her future achievements.”
For official baiduhai Athlete of the Month rules and voting information, visit chicagotribune.com/suburbs/athletes.