Name: Laura Edwards (Chinni)
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 2010
Events: 200 back, 400 IM, 200 IM
Degree: Communications Studies
Profession: Strength and Conditioning Coach/Personal Trainer
Current residence: Charlotte NC
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program?
The bus rides home after the last day of Christmas training. Knowing that we had just trained so hard and we were all finally done with Christmas training and so ready for conference! Either that, or the days where we’d go down to Wrightsville beach for ocean swims and immediately after head to Saltworks for pancakes together.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
My experience as a part of this incredible team has absolutely made me the person I am today. My experiences with the team taught me the true meaning of dedication, hard work, persistence and the value of being a part of a team all working towards a greater good.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck?
I decided (unknowingly) after graduation that I’d try every single career I possibly could and that’s just what I did. I have been a morning show radio host, a real estate sales manager, a manager of several gyms, I helped to build a strength and conditioning program for a swim team and have landed finally as a personal trainer and coach. I recently learned how to snowboard which has made me dislike winter a lot less than I used to and about three months ago I got married. Life has been wild but very good!
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
Oh man…a tough question. Why did my mind immediately go to Bojangles?? Obviously Wrightsville Beach, Vitos Pizza, Sweet and Savory, Palm Room…it’s hard to just choose one place!
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
La Di Da…ALWAYS is the best cheer.
“UNCW Swimming and Diving, the best four years of your life” no truer words 
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Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
For current swimmers and divers…the more you buy into the program and the coaching, the more successful you will be. Enjoy every moment and remember to soak it all in when you can. It goes so fast.
For recent alumni, know that you’re forever part of this family and we’re all here to help each other. Network with fellow alumni and don’t lose touch with your class. We are a rare and special group that we should all always be a part of.