WASHINGTON (June 14, 2023) – Howard University rising junior Media, Journalism, and Film major, Spanish minor Sareyah Rudd sat down with recent graduate swimmer Ileana Bocage (Port-of-Spain, Trinidad & Tobago) for a quick Q and A session.
 
Q: What's your favorite part about swimming?
A: Competing is my favorite part, especially a great race because of all the training put into it.
 
Q: How did you get started in swimming?
A: I started swimming because my dad taught my sister and I the importance of how to swim and stay active. I began competitive swimming because I found a love for the sport while making new friendships.
 
Q: What kept you motivated?
A: My trust in God, support from my teammates, coaches and parents while staying focus on my goals.
 
Q: If you were not competing in swimming, what other sport would you do?
A: I am really not sure (lol), maybe CrossFit or tennis. I also did gymnastics when I was younger, so maybe that if I did not swimming.
 
Q: Who is your favorite athlete and why?
A: Alia Atkinson (Caribbean Olympian Swimmer) because she has broken world records in the breaststroke. She has been my role model in swimming.
 
Q: What's your favorite memory at Howard?
A: It is hard to pick just one (lol). I have had so many great memories like Homecoming, team brunches and exploring DC with friends, just a few memories that come to mind.
 
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: I will be pursuing a master's degree in electrical and computer engineering at the University of Florida.
 
Q: What or who will you miss at Howard?
A: I will miss my friends and the Howard experience because they helped shape me into the person I am today.
 
Q: What advice would you give future Bison?
A: Trust in God and not dwell on setbacks, but instead, stay focus on your goals and what is next.
 
Q: Who would you like to thank?
A: I would like to thank God, my parents, coaches and friends. I would not have been able to do it without them.
 
About Bocage:

• Personal:
  • Hometown: Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
  • Major: Electrical Engineering
• Athletic Achievements at Howard:
  • National Invitational Championships Qualifier (50 Breast)
• Academic Achievements at Howard:
  • 3x-MEAC Commissioner's All-Academic Team (2020, 2021 & 2022)
  • Coastal Collegiate Sports Association (CCSA) Academic Honor Roll

 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com.