Misty Hyman

Hyman first made the Valley proud during the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney when she won the 200-meter butterfly race, breaking the American record. She went on to be a 28-time All-American with several NCAA national titles. Today, she makes waves as a mentor for young athletes as the assistant swim coach at ASU and has made it her mission to spark a dialogue about healthy body image among young female athletes after revealing her past struggles with an eating disorder.

What impact do you hope to have on the Valley? “It is a true honor to be a part of what Arizona is becoming. I am a second-generation native, and I am so proud to see the Valley coming of age in the last 10 years. I am equally proud that I can be a part of shaping its future. I was privileged to learn through swimming that I could accomplish a lot more than I could ever imagine. As a coach, I serve as a positive role model to young women and men to help them reach their full potential both in and out of the pool. As an inspirational speaker, I strive to embolden organizations to overcome obstacles to get solutions and results. As a member of this community, I aim to use the platform that swimming has provided to make an impact on people's health, fitness and aspirations.”

Local Loves:

Restaurant: The Mission 

Annual event: Las Noches de las Luminarias at Desert Botanical Garden

Spot to unwind: jade bar

Hidden gem: Nobuo at Teeter House

Place to work up a sweat: Sumits Yoga

Staycation spot: Sanctuary on Camelback

Way to give back: Sharing my Olympic story with kids