Eight-time state champ Menzel to swim for Razorbacks

Nicole Menzel isn't shy about expressing her goals as a swimmer -- among them, she expects to be competing in the 2012 Summer Olympics.

And however lofty an aspiration, Menzel considers it obtainable with the proper training.

She took the next step toward reaching that goal Tuesday, signing a letter of intent to attend Arkansas on a swimming scholarship next year.

"I had that talk with (Arkansas) coach (Jeff Poppell) and he said it was reachable if I stay on this track," Menzel said. "They have a strong distance program, so he'd be giving me good training. Him having that confidence in me makes me confident."

That was ultimately the deciding factor for Menzel, who had offers from several big-name programs, such as Auburn, Louisville, LSU and Florida State.

Menzel, who won the Class 3-A state championship in the 500-yard freestyle all four years of her high school career, has upped her practice regimen the past couple of years in hopes of continuing the progress she has shown at Hilton Head High. She travels to Savannah for swimming practice nearly every day.

"I'm really happy with my career so far. It's been really enjoyable," Menzel said. "But I'm ready to go out and do bigger and better things. I'm ready to take this to the next level."

Name: Nicole Menzel

High school: Hilton Head High

Sport: Swimming

High school coach: Jack Maddan

Position: Distance swimmer

College: University of Arkansas

Probable major: Recreation/sports marketing

Why Arkansas? "I took a trip there and I got along great with the girls on the team," Menzel said. "I just really loved the campus and I liked the coaches a lot, too. I feel like I fit in well there."

About Arkansas: The Razorbacks finished fifth in the Southeastern Conference in 2008-09 and had a 10-1 dual record during the regular season. The swimming and diving program is in its seventh year. Jeff Poppell just began his fifth season as head coach.

Other schools that offered scholarships: Auburn, Louisville, Louisiana State, Florida State

Other high school sports played: None

Accolades: Menzel won eight state championship medals over her high school career -- three as a senior, two as a junior, two as a sophomore and one as a freshman. She won the 500-yard freestyle all four seasons.

Qualified academically? Yes