Copyright Eva Rinaldi

Stephanie Rice is a retired competitive swimmer who hails from Brisbane. She won three gold medals at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. She was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia on 26 January 2009. Stephanie was also the 2008 Telstra Swimmer of the Year, and the 2008 World Swimmer of the Year.

Dear Steph,

What an exciting journey you are on!!! There are so many things about to unfold for you so keep your thoughts positive. I know at times it feels like you aren’t understood and you feel alone, but don’t worry as you will work through all of those fears and find some incredible friends who will last you through life.

Your love for swimming will continue to grow and the path that lies ahead for you is one that will blow your mind with excitement, joy and fulfilment. You never could have predicted or even dreamed of the success you will have. But don’t worry about results and outcomes, as all of that is just a by-product of the love and passion you have for the water.

There will be challenges and hard times, like on any journey to the top, but trust me when I say that all the tears and nights where you lay in bed worried and doubtful, that they will all be worth it. Those moments are a test of character and you must always remember that they are happening for a reason … everything happens for a reason.

You are about to embark on some big changes. You will find a coach who will mentor and lead you towards incredible things, not only in the pool but also through life. This man is an angel on earth and you will forever be grateful for the love and light he continually shares with you and the wisdom and guidance he provides. He understands you better than anyone else and you will form a very strong bond together. He will always be there to pick you up when you’re down and be there to celebrate in the successes. Without him you know that you wouldn’t be the woman that you will become.

Be grateful and thankful for the supporting and loving family that you have. I know at times it is challenging and you will always long for freedom and independence, but know that your parents love you dearly and truly do want the best for you. They love you as Stephanie Rice, not Stephanie Rice the Swimmer, and over time you will truly appreciate that deep love.

Your family will always come together to support you and be there at every meet to watch you put all your hard work to the test! They will be the ones you look for in the stands as you step out of the pool after victories, but also the ones who will hold you and comfort you after the struggles.

Swimming is a huge part of your life and always will be, but there will always be more to life than swimming. You are continually guided towards your path and trust that every decision you make is the right one, even though if at the time it feels otherwise. Know inside that there are lessons and blessings in each decision and turning point, and you will always have the support system to help you through when you are unable to do it on your own.

One day you will look back and be able to write a letter similar to this that will help others towards their journey to success. Writing this letter will not only inspire other young athletes, but the process of writing this will also heal elements within yourself.

When times get tough, always remember to ask for help and take time to turn inwards and reflect. Don’t be too hard on yourself, as I know you can be at times, rather use this energy to empower yourself and others.

You will always be most fulfilled when you give back to and share your insights and experiences to empower others, so know that this journey you are on is to gather the knowledge so one day you will be able to share it with the world.

Trust in the process and enjoy every moment, because what you will experience over the next 10 years will make you truly believe that dreams really do come true!

Sending you love and light!

Steph

Xxx