Indiana University Athletics
Where Are They Now? - Brooke Taflinger
12/1/2005 12:00:00 AM | Women's Swimming and Diving
Dec. 1, 2005
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - Over the 2005-06 campaign, IUHOOSIERS.com will catch up with former Indiana swimmers and divers to see where life has taken them after graduating from IU. Brooke Taflinger, who swam for IU from 2001-04, took the time to fill in IUHOOSIERS.com on her life since graduation.
What have you been doing since graduating from Indiana University?
Since graduating from IU, I have been in the working world. I moved to Colorado in 2004 to do an internship and I have stayed out here since then. I work for Denver Parks and Recreation Special Needs Program, and I recently took my test to become a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). I work with people of all ages and disabilities doing recreation and leisure activities. We do all Special Olympic sports, hiking, rock climbing, snow and water skiing, cooking, ceramics, horseback riding, weight lifting, personal safety and many more programs. I LOVE IT!!! Every day is different, and every day we see different participants. I also tutor and teach private swim lessons on the side for people with disabilities.
What did you enjoy the most about your time as a Hoosier?
As a Hoosier, the thing I enjoyed the most was being in shape, having a group of people who you can relate to and who are all working towards the same goals. Being in the real world, it is hard to find time to work out and even harder to find people who you can relate to. Most people think I just splashed around in the water for fun. They have no concept of the hard work and dedication we put into our sport. So that is what I enjoyed; companionship, a common goal and unity between the girls.
What piece of advice would you give to any current Hoosier?
My advice to you is don't take this opportunity for granted. This is a once in a lifetime shot and once you are done, you are done. Work hard. The ladies, who swam before your time, put in a lot of sweat, tears and hard work to make IU swimming what it is today. You are in the process of creating history, and know who and what came before you. Enjoy it!!!!! Make life-long friends and life-long memories.
Would you say that being a student-athlete at Indiana University has helped you get to where you are today?
Being a student-athlete has definitely helped me and continues to be with me in my every day work. First of all, I participate in sports and recreation every day. Second, time management is vital in my work. I run around all day from one program to the next and keeping all of my appointments and scheduling is just like being in college. The dedication and passion I had for swimming has transformed into my dedication and passion I have for my work and participants.
Anything additional you would like to add?
I love living in Colorado. I go hiking, camping and snowboarding. YEAH, I can now snowboard without worrying about getting hurt for swimming. I love the mountains and anytime you want to come visit, you are more than welcome.
