Olympics bring out 2016 swimming hopefuls - WSFA.com: News Weather and Sports for Montgomery, AL.

Olympics bring out 2016 swimming hopefuls

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MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) -

For some local children, The London games are a must-see. Some of them are 2016 Olympic swimming hopefuls.

When it comes to going for the gold, they're diving in...head first.

"It's just always been a life dream for me," says Megan Smith.

"I wanna be like that some day," says Cameron Lawing.

"What if I make it to the Olympics?" says Shayla Neilson.

The Olympic games showcase the best of the best. Shayla Neilson knows that.

"Train hard, as hard as I can, love my coaches and just hope that I go to the Olympics."

For these swimmers, the Olympics are about more than just watching their favorite athletes compete. It's also about watching how they do it.

"It's just really great knowing there are older people I can learn from," says swimmer Devin Blackburn.

"Their flip turns and how they do their strokes. I try to experiment and do them in the water," adds Neilson.

"If she gets to that level, we'll be really excited," says Colleen Neilson, Shayla's mother.

Shayla's mom decided a year ago the investment to fulfill her daughter's dream was worth it--especially if it meant she could secure a scholarship, too.

"We sat down [and asked] how much the cost was--whether it was worth it to pay now or pay for college later."

One thing is for sure, all eyes are on the Olympic games.

"Probably sit down, eat pizza and watch it," adds Shayla.

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