Swim With Mike Foundation Scholarships

Scholarship Sponsored by Swim With Mike Foundation

Introduction and history
In 1981 the inaugural Swim For Mike was organized to raise funds for a specially outfitted van for Mike Nyeholt — a three-time All-American swimmer who was left paralyzed from the chest down after a motorcycle accident. The fundraising swim-a-thon succeeded beyond expectations. At Mike’s request, surplus monies were directed to establish the Physically Challenged Athletes Scholarship Fund to support student-athletes who had suffered similar life-changing injuries. At the time it was the only program of its kind in the United States.

From that single event, Swim With Mike has grown into an annual tradition hosted at USC’s Uytengsu Aquatics Center, with additional satellite events now held on college campuses nationwide. What began as Mike’s effort to help others has evolved into a lasting Ripple Effect.

The Ripple Effect and invitation
Through this Ripple Effect, the scholarship program has financed education for recipients spanning two generations. If you meet the criteria below, we encourage you to apply and join the Swim With Mike community as a scholarship recipient and future alumnus who gives back.

Documents you will need
- Personal statement: Tell us about yourself, including how you learned of the Swim With Mike Foundation, your athletic background and experience, your educational objectives, and how you would support the foundation both as a recipient and later as an alumnus.
- One to three letters of recommendation
- Medical verification of your disability from a qualified professional
- Unofficial transcript from high school or previous college coursework
- Current digital photograph
- Resume outlining community involvement and hobbies

Eligibility requirements
- Prior participation in organized athletics (high school, collegiate, or club) before the onset of the illness or injury
- A physical disability caused by illness or injury that substantially limits daily activities (examples include paralysis, blindness, cancer, amputation, or head injury)
- Meeting the admission standards of a four-year or graduate-level institution
- Continuing to make satisfactory academic progress toward a degree after acceptance to college or graduate school
- Maintaining a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 and remaining in good academic standing at an accredited institution
- Demonstrated financial need

If you have questions about the application materials or eligibility, please contact the Swim With Mike Foundation for guidance.