It was a surreal moment for senior Kate Bassett.
     She sat at the table in the lobby of the Kenny Center watching as family, friends, teammates, coaches and faculty gathered.
     They all came together Wednesday afternoon to watch Bassett sign her National Letter of Intent to swim at UCLA next year.
     “I have been swimming competitively since I was seven,” Bassett said. “It was rewarding to realize that all of these years have led to this opportunity.”
     A large crowd, including a local TV station, was present as Bassett officially signed with UCLA, which was her top choice. An All-American, state record holder and junior national competitor, Bassett was immediately attracted to the UCLA program.
     “(UCLA) has such an amazing student-athlete community that I cannot wait to be a part of,” Bassett said. “After breaking my leg last year, it is really a dream come true. I love the campus, the facilities, the new pool and most importantly, the coaching staff and team. It just felt right.”
     It was her foundation at St. Catherine’s that prepared her for this opportunity. And it’s something Bassett will miss as she heads to the West coast next fall.
     “It really hit me that I won't be here next year,” Bassett said. “As excited as I am for UCLA, I will really miss this place, especially the sense of community.  
     “It was so amazing to have my family, friends, teachers and teammates supporting me (at the signing). It’s a special time because every one of those people has helped me to grow in some way during my time here, in or out of the pool, and I felt very honored to have them there with me.”