Name: Rebecca (Rainey) Ridenhour
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 2007
Events: 500 Free, 400 IM, 1,000 Free, 200 Fly
Degree: BS in Accounting, Minor in Spanish
Profession: Accounting Manager
Current residence: Davidson, NC
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program?
I really enjoyed being able to share my college swim experience with my younger brother, Bennett Rainey, for one year! Conference Championships and the excitement leading up to it is a feeling like no other – winning our conference championship in 2006 was definitely a highlight. Although Christmas training was tough – the feeling of finishing 10x 400 IM’s on the last day was the best and most rewarding feeling. The friendships I made over the years are something I will cherish forever! I am still very close to a lot of the alumni and truly cherish the friendships we made.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
The dedication, commitment and teamwork we learn through being a student athlete will be with me in every aspect of my life.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck?
I have been married for 5 years and have a 2.5 year old, Henry, and an 8 month old, Kennedy. I am working as an Accounting Manager at Lowe’s Home Improvement. We live about 4 hours away from Wilmington, so we are still able to take vacations to Wrightsville beach and see some of our good friends that still live there. I am a self-proclaimed “foodie” – I love good food and to keep in shape I workout with HIIT training, cardio dance and yoga.
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
Flaming Amy’s and chocolate chip pancakes at Wag after morning practice! I also loved Bluewater and of course, the beach!
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
Team cheers and cheering “Ka-Kawwww!”
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
Make it a priority to keep in touch and support your teammates over the years, even as people move away and get busy with work or growing families. Work hard and play hard. Have fun!