By  JENNIFER SAHAKIAN:

Freshman Maxim Grinfeld was five-years-old when he engaged in the athletic sport of swimming. Since then, he has shown great leadership on the team.

“Swimming makes me stronger physically and mentally. This activity assists me in building body strength and releasing stress,” Grinfeld said.

His hard work paid off on May 17 when Grinfeld competed at East Los Angeles College in the city finals.

In addition to being the only freshman on the Birmingham Community Charter High School (BCCHS) team during the event, he positioned 15th place for the 100 Breaststroke.

Overall, Palisades Charter High School placed 1st at the city finals while BCCHS ranked fifth. Moreover, as Grinfeld’s swim season ends, he has taken part in water polo as of May 20.

“I believe I did well at the city finals because I was the only freshman in my event,” Grinfeld said.

Nine-years-ago, his parents advised him to become a professional swimmer. Days had gone by when he finally realized he would prevail in this hobby.

Grinfeld gets a sense of accomplishment while providing the advantage of staying in shape.

However, he claims that he will put an end to his athletic interest at the end of his senior year.

Grinfeld wishes to concentrate only on his education after high school.

“Everyone has a calling and I guess swimming was just meant to be mine,” Grinfeld said.