Ashley Kirchner

Elms College freshman women's swimmer Ashley Kirchner (Dalton, Mass.) was selected as this week's female student athlete spotlight.

A nursing major at Elms, Kirchner completed her first season as a member of the Blazers' swim team in 2010-11.

Kirchner was an instrumental force in helping Elms set a program-best 11-2 record during head-to-head competition. Kirchner claimed three top 10 finishes at the season-ending New England Intercollegiate Swimming and Diving Association (NEISDA) Championships. Kirchner's efforts were highlighted by a seventh place mark in the 100-yard individual medley (1:05.02), and setting new Elms records in the 200-yard individual medley (2:22.03) and the 50-yard butterfly (28:50) capturing ninth place finishes in both races. Additionally, Kirchner was part of each of the aforementioned record-setting relay squads. She also had a strong performance at the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Championship, notching two first place tallies in the 200-yard individual medley (2:22.25) and the 50-yard butterfly (28.80) as well as a pair of second place finishes in the 50-yard and 200-yard breaststroke events with respective times of 33.44 and 2:38.20. Kirchner also had a hand in the GNAC record setting 400-yard and 200-yard medley relay winning teams.

Briefly describe your favorite sports moment (playing or as a fan):

My favorite sports moment was getting third place sophomore year of high school at the state championship meet in the 100-yard breaststroke.

Who has been your biggest influence in sports and why:

My biggest influence has been my mom. She is always supportive and encourages me to do my best.

Why did you choose to attend Elms College:

My favorite place to travel to is Florida - I have family living there.

Where is the one place you would like to travel to in the future and why:

I'd like to travel to Italy because it is beautiful there. 

What is your favorite sports book or movie:

My favorite movie is Remember The Titans.