Athletes all can reflect upon falling in love with their sport. With the indecisive thoughts on where to go next, finding where you may call “home” is one of the most powerful feelings. Experimenting on where to start for sports in Woodland, Patchkofsky found himself on the Timber Team his freshman year. With mixed feelings, he began to research and to pursue swimming. Still struggling to find his place, Patchkofsky turned to the other end of the pool, seeing one diver and picturing himself in the air.

“When I first stepped onto the diving board at Woodland, I knew that this is what I wanted to do,” Patchkofsky voiced.

As a student of the sport, Patchkofsky progressed very quickly using his determination. The support from the team encouraged him to push himself even further. Knowing that for one dual meet, he needed six dives, and for championships he needed eleven dives to qualify. NVL Championships was Patchkofsky’s original goal; the thought of states seemed far off.

“I believe my greatest accomplishment in my first year of diving is getting the opportunity to go to states,” said Patchkofsky. “Many people don’t have that opportunity, and I was incredibly thankful to qualify halfway into my season.”

During the Boy’s Diving Naugatuck Valley League Championship, Patchkofsky didn’t know what to expect from his competition. Patchkofsky remained confident and focused, stepping on the board knowing to take one piece at a time. By the end of the night, Patchkofsky claimed fourth place out of the eleven competitors.

“As I’m diving, I make sure to plan everything prior to even stepping on the board. That way once I’m on the board, I have the right mindset to throw my dives,” expressed Patchkofsky.

Picking up an incredible passion for the new sport, Patchkofsky thinks ahead as to where his high school diving career may take him. Looking for an education in culinary arts beyond Woodland, his research begins to find universities with a dive team.

“Next season is very important to get noticed by coaches,” said Patchkofshy. “My goal is to potentially commit to a division one university.”

Continuing to plan for the future, Patchkofsky’s ambition for diving grows daily. Recognizing his potential and confidence, Patchkofsky’s next challenge is valuing his distance within his athletic journey.