Hayden Beckley (12, HSU) began his swimming career at the age of four, starting with the Lakeside Quarry Gators. From the start, it was clear swimming meant more to him than being just an activity. As he continued to train and work on his swimming, Beckley quickly moved up through the program, showing true dedication for the sport.
Just a few years later, Beckley made the transition to the Lakeside SeaHawks, where the training was much more intense. The increased practice and requirements pushed him to improve not only physically but mentally. This transition helped him train in various events, ultimately guiding him to his best events, the 100-meter backstroke and the individual medley, where his training is now focused.
“My main events are the 100 backstroke and the individual medley,” Beckley said. “That’s where I feel the most confident and where I’ve put in the most work.”
Now a member of the SeaHawks for 13 years, Beckley’s commitment to swimming is reflected in his intense schedule. Between club and school swimming, he practices around ten times a week.
“Swimming definitely takes up a lot of time,” Beckley said. “I usually have around ten practices a week between Lakeside and school.”
His week starts with an early practice starting on Mondays at 6 a.m. followed by an afterschool practice. Then, on Tuesdays and Thursdays he has longer afterschool practice. Wednesdays and Fridays follow the same schedule as Monday. He finally finishes off the week with early morning Saturday practices. This schedule has now become a normal part of his life.
Despite the intense workload, Beckley has managed to stay mostly injury-free throughout his career. However, the mental side of swimming has become his biggest challenge.
“It’s sometimes hard to stay mentally prepared,” Beckley said. “You can feel really run down and drained, especially during long weeks.”
Beckley credits his teammates for helping him push through the tougher moments during his time swimming.
“Your teammates really help with that,” he said. “They push you when you don’t feel like pushing yourself.”
The coaches have also played a major role in Beckley’s development. His club coach, Mike DeBo, has worked with him since he was young and continues to be one of his biggest influences.
“He’s always been there for me. He’s helped me a lot throughout my career,” Beckley said.
In addition, his high school coaches, J.C. Barnett and Caitlyn Ming, have also had a strong impact on his growth.
“They’ve definitely had a big impact,” Beckley said. “They’re always helping me make the right decisions.”
After this year, Beckley has committed to continue his swimming career at Grand Canyon University. He participated in the senior signing at Manual on Wednesday, Nov. 12.
“I’ve always loved being out West,” Beckley said. “When I went on my official visit, I fell in love with the community and the work ethic the team has.”
After 15 years of this sport’s early mornings, constant training and dedication to the sport, Beckley continues to show how committed he is when supported by strong coaching and teammates who have shaped him into the swimmer he is today.
