Somers High School Super Swimmer-Diver Julia Wilkinson
By Dan Murphy
Congratulations to Julia Wilkinson, a senior at Somers High school, for being named Con Edison’s Scholar Athlete of the week. Julia excels in both swimming and diving on the Somers Swim team. Last month Julia won the Horace Greeley Invitational and qualified for States with a 470.85 Dive score.
Julia placed 1st in the 200-yard medley relay, 50-yard freestyle, and 100-yard backstroke. She is currently ranked #1 in Section 1 Diving. As a dual event athlete (swim and dive), Julia stands out among her peers.
She was named a 2022 All American diver and was a USA Diving Junior National semifinalist. As a swimmer, Julia was a New York High School Sectional qualifier for 100-yard backstroke in swimming, and swam the relay and individual swimming and diving to help her varsity team win the League Championship in 2022.
Academically, Julia has earned a 4.0 GPA every marking period, and is a member of the National Honor Society. She has completed a number of AP and IB and honors courses.
Julia is also Vice President of Somers High School Strings & Chamber Orchestra, (she plays piano and violin), and a member of Somers High School Student Council and the Student Athletic Council She has received the Excellence in English Award, Excellence in Orchestra Award, President’s Education Award, and the Student Council Leadership Award (3 consecutive years).
Outside of school, Julia founded the Find a Home Project to help rescue animals and find forever homes and serves as a Volunteer junior swim and dive coach in her community teaching children the proper techniques of swimming and diving.
“Julia Wilkinson is an outstanding and well-rounded student with a commendable dedication to academics, athletics, and community service. Her rigorous course load and success in numerous AP classes exemplify her strong work ethic and intellectual abilities,” said Eileen Cawley, Guidance Counselor, Somers High School.
“Julia’s commitment to swimming/diving, both at the school and club levels, showcases her dedication and perseverance. Through this she has developed focus, determination, and the ability to handle pressure effectively. Her involvement as a volunteer coach for younger swimmers and her work at an animal shelter underscore her commitment to helping others and her broader community.
“As an active member of the student athletic council, Julia contributes to the enhancement of the school’s athletic programs and demonstrates leadership skills. Her role in this council reflects her ability to work collaboratively with others and make a positive impact on her school community. Julia’s talent as a musician and her membership in the elite chamber orchestra highlight her artistic abilities and her capacity for discipline and dedication in her pursuits,” said Cawley.
Julia has committed to attend Cornell University next year.