Nov. 29, 2001

Lindsay Palbykin, one of the new Missouri Tiger cubs, is adjusting to her new climate. Being a native of Arizona, the chill in the Missouri air is something new to her. "I've never lived anywhere where there's been snow. My parents called me and it's like 90 degrees there, and some mornings I've already seen it get into the 30's here!"

So, in order to adjust to the new surroundings she says, "My mom came out earlier and we had to go out and by some new jackets and things...I only have about four or five sweaters."

Palbykin is not only buying new winter apparel to adjust to the weather, she also is adjusting to the temperature of the water. And as a member of the women's swimming team, it has the potential to reach the boiling point.

Palbykin says her new tiger teammates have made the adjustments much easier. "It was really neat when I came here. I had people calling the first day to hang out and go get ice cream. The upper classmen have been really good about taking me under their wing."

And, not only did Palbykin find herself immediately surrounded by new friends, she even had a family. "We have big sisters on the team. Mine (Sarah Lowe and Erin Wilke) even took me to dinner when I got here. It's just like a family really. Everyone takes care of each other. That's a really big aspect of what makes this team so special."

And Palbykin says this sort of bond among the MU Swimmers and Divers isn't something you find everywhere. "Everyone is behind the lanes cheering each other on. Some of the other teams cheer every once in awhile, but it isn't like our constant energy. We just have this energy and this life that broadcasts that we're winners!"

Palbykin says, "It's more the team than the individual. That's what makes it so fun."

And as Palbykin continues into the season, she has set goals as both a teammate and an individual. " I want to contribute to the team as much as I possibly can," Palbykin says, "I want to make sure that I'm getting points for everyone, getting points for the team." She also is hoping to jump right in to tough competition. "I want to try and make it to the Big 12 finals this year."

And her plans don't end there. Palbykin is dedicated to swimming for the long haul. "I'm going to be one of those ladies in a master's program. I just love swimming...the feel of the water and the good workout. I want to swim forever."