Former Arizona swimmer Annie Chandler was recently announced as one of nine finalists for NCAA Woman of the Year. Chandler held a press conference yesterday at McKale Center to talk about the award, which will be presented on October 16 in Indianapolis.

Three of the last four NCAA Women of the Year (Justine Schluntz, Lacey Nymeyer and Whitney Myers) were Arizona swimmers, and that is a fact not lost on Chandler.

“I know them all very well,” Chandler said. “I remember coming in my freshman year and just the name Whitney Myers, to have my name put beside hers, and any of (the former Arizona winners) is a privilege.”

“They’re such well-rounded people and I’m just honored to be amongst them.”

Chandler made it a point to highlight the contributions her many coaches have made on her career, both past and present. She spoke at length about how much of an impact former UA coach and current Missouri head coach Greg Rhodenbaugh had on her career outlook.

“He helped me keep swimming in a healthy perspective since he has such a balanced life,” said Chandler, citing the fact that Rhodenbaugh has eight kids as why he’s able to handle the stresses of swimming so well.

“You know, if I had a rough race and was real upset about it, he would shrug his shoulders and say ‘good thing it’s just swimming.’”

Now, Chandler is focused on preparing for the Pan American Games, taking place in Guadalajara, Mexico, from Oct. 14 through Oct. 30, and the Olympic trials coming up this summer.

UA associate head coach Rick DeMont is coaching Chandler in preparation for her upcoming events, she said.