Senior Gabby Goldfarb has been a cornerstone of Notre Dame’s swimming and water polo programs, making an impact not just through her athletic talent but also through her leadership and dedication. From her first days at NDB, Goldfarb has been a consistent presence both in and out of the pool, supporting younger teammates, leading warm-ups and taking on both formal and informal leadership roles on both teams.
Wendy Connolly, head varsity swim coach, praises Goldfarb’s work ethic and natural leadership. “She stands out because in terms of the team, I can count on her to help the newer swimmers. She’s been team captain before … I’ve seen her change and grow throughout the four years. And as a coach, that’s something that I absolutely love to see … [athletes] developing over time.”
Connolly adds, “People turn to her naturally. She will run the stretching before a meet or a practice. She’ll help with meets and help the younger swimmers figure it out … I totally appreciate that. She has gotten so much better in terms of her focus and her attention to detail, and you can see … her future is going to be amazing.”
Junior Gabriela Colorado, a fellow varsity swimmer and water polo player, said, “Gabby is just a great teammate all around. She always has something comforting to say and is such a fantastic person to be around … I’m really going to miss her. But I’m so proud of all the work she’s put in — she’s the most dedicated person ever.”
Goldfarb’s presence is defined by confidence and caring for others. Connolly reflects, “She takes charge, right, but in a way that people will follow. People turn to her and ask her questions. She has this confidence about her. The way she talks to people is kind and understanding, and she’s got a strong sense of self. She’s got confidence in the water because of not only her time in the water and time at practice but also her confidence.”
On her emotions throughout seeing Goldfarb mature, Connolly said, “There’s no words for that. That is what teachers and coaches were born to do. I mean, you want to hold their hand for a certain amount of time, and then you let them go and to see her in particular, turn into the person she is, turn into the athlete she is, turn into the student that she is, the young woman that she is. I mean, it brings you to tears. It’s what we’re here to do.”
Gabby Goldfarb from the Class of 2026 has made her mark as a dedicated student-athlete whose combination of talent, leadership and dedication has shaped not only her own growth but also the experiences of everyone around her. With graduation only a few months away, she leaves behind a legacy of hard work and determination that exemplifies what it means to be a Notre Dame student and athlete.
