Photo by Rodney Wooters / Woo Doo Photo
For Olivia Colombo, excellence in the pool has become both routine and remarkable. The Carroll senior continues to redefine what’s possible for the Lady Dragons, pairing historic performances with steady leadership as one of the program’s cornerstones.
Earlier this season, Colombo shattered a decade-old pool record in the 100-yard backstroke at the Elise Cerami Aquatic Center, touching the wall in 54.62 seconds. The swim not only reset the pool record but also broke her own Carroll team mark, reinforcing her place among the most accomplished swimmers in program history.
Her dominance carried into the 2026 District 4-6A meet, where Colombo claimed first place in the 50-yard freestyle with a time of 23.71 and followed it with another gold in the 100-yard backstroke. She also anchored Carroll’s winning 400-yard freestyle relay, helping the Dragons secure a district title with a commanding finish.
Colombo’s résumé already includes a state championship. At the 2025 UIL meet, she helped power Carroll’s 400-freestyle relay to first place, finishing more than a second ahead of the field.
Beyond the medals, Colombo’s impact is felt in quieter moments. A senior captain and longtime relay anchor, she has trained alongside teammate Emma Bibza since elementary school, forming a partnership built on trust and consistency.
Next season, Colombo will continue her journey at Arizona State, carrying Carroll’s tradition of excellence to one of the nation’s premier collegiate programs.