California Gamma Chapter of Pi Beta Phi
University of Southern California
P.O. Box 442100
Lawrence, KS 66044-2100
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I
t's known that Pi Phi plants seeds in the
lives of young women and nurtures them
until they bloom. Kaleigh Gilchrist '10 is a
prime example of excellence sprouting from
Pi Phi; not only does Kaleigh represent the
women that blossom from Pi Phi, but she also
represents the United States of America.
Being part of the water polo
team that won gold in the
2021 Olympics, as well as in
the 2016 Olympics, Kaleigh
shared, "It's an honor and
privilege to represent your
country on the world's largest
stage; winning a gold medal
makes the journey even
more special."
The 2021 Olympics brought
its joys, such as overcoming
adversity and finishing at the
top of the podium, but it also
brought its challenges.
While celebrating her team's World
Championship in South Korea in 2019, Kaleigh
endured a near-death incident. Pausing from the
sport she loves was challenging, but she met great
mentors along the way—one of whom was Kobe
Bryant. "He reached out and helped mentor me
Finding Strength
in Adversity
Olympian Kaleigh Gilchrist '10
Says Yes to Second Chances
during my rehab process," Kaleigh explained.
Following her recovery, Kaleigh and her team
were thrilled to be back in 2021 to showcase
the sport they've dedicated their lives to. In
addition to the uncertainties of the pandemic,
which caused a postponement of the games,
Kayleigh felt worn down after the passing of
both Kobe and her coach, Coach Barnett.
"It took a toll on my mental
health," Kaleigh admitted.
"But this gold medal that
my team and I earned
taught us valuable lessons
about perseverance, loss, and
strength."
When she's not playing
water polo, Kaleigh enjoys
surfing. "Surfing is my first
love and joy," she added.
"After my injury, I gained a
fresh perspective on what's
truly important in life. I got
a second chance at doing what I love, so I'm
going to make sure I don't take either of my
passions, water polo or surfing, for granted."
You can connect with Kaleigh at
kaleighgilchrist@gmail.com or find her on
Instagram at @kaleighgilchrist.
