O’Fallon Park’s Laylah Shahid is making waves with her exceptional swimming talent.
Laylah Shahid, a bright and talented 10-year-old, is making waves both in and out of the pool as a member of the O’Fallon Park Makos Swim Team. A sixth-grade scholar-athlete with a perfect 4.0 GPA, Laylah embodies the dedication, discipline, and determination required to excel in academics and athletics.
Laylah joined the Makos in 2016 at the tender age of five after impressing the team with her ability to swim a full lap. Since then, she has grown into a key member of the team, consistently setting an example of leadership and perseverance. Laylah’s ultimate goal is to secure an athletic scholarship, and she is willing to make significant sacrifices to achieve her dreams. Her mother, Antanika Shahid, is fully supportive of Laylah’s ambitions, recognizing the importance of laying a foundation for generational wealth and success.
The O’Fallon Park Makos Swim Team holds a unique position as the only all-Black swim team in the state of Missouri competing in the YMCA circuit. Established in 2013 by Terea “Coach T” Goodwin after the YMCA’s opening, the team has become a symbol of inspiration and empowerment for Black youth in the community. Today, the Makos boast a roster of 40 swimmers, ranging in age from five to 17. Under the guidance of Coach T and Assistant Coach Torrie Preciado, the team showcases a supportive and close-knit environment where athletes thrive.
The Makos’ success is fueled by an extraordinary support system of dedicated parents and families. Most of the team’s parents are married, and the level of involvement from fathers is particularly notable. At swim meets, the presence of so many dads cheering from the sidelines often astonishes opposing teams’ parents, who sometimes mistake them for additional coaches. This strong sense of community and parental involvement creates a nurturing atmosphere for the swimmers, encouraging them to strive for greatness.
Beyond their supportive environment, the Makos have achieved remarkable milestones. This year, the team was honored with an invitation to attend the 2024 Summer Olympic Swim Trials in Indianapolis, Indiana. The experience was unforgettable, as they witnessed Gretchen Walsh break a world record, inspiring the young athletes to dream big. Looking ahead, the Makos have also received an invitation to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, an opportunity that promises to further motivate and inspire the team.
Laylah’s commitment to her team is remarkable. She always puts the team’s success above her own, ensuring that her actions reflect her dedication to collective achievement. Her sacrifices and hard work have positioned her as a role model for her peers and a source of pride for her family and community.
The O’Fallon Park Makos Swim Team is more than just a group of swimmers; it is a nod to the power of community, representation, and perseverance. Under the leadership of Coach T and Coach Torrie, and with the support of devoted parents, the Makos continue to break barriers and inspire young athletes like Laylah Shahid to reach their full potential. As Laylah pursues her dream of securing an athletic scholarship, she is not only building a brighter future for herself but also paving the way for others to follow in her footsteps.
Laylah is currently raising funds for her 2024-2025 Swim Season
Laylah’s cashapp is: $LoveLaylah2014
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