As a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Division III, the Ohio Athletic Conference will be doing Q&A's to highlight student-athletes in the conference that embody the ideals of a Division III student-athlete. This month's Q&A features Annie Richters, a swimmer from Ohio Northern University and member of the OAC SAAC.

Name: Annie Richters

Sport: Swimming and Diving

Institution: Ohio Northern University '25

Major: Forensic Biology with a minor in Chemistry

Hometown: Troy, Ohio

Q: Why did you want to play your sport at a Division III University?

I have been competing in my sport ever since I was little, and I knew it would be something I wanted to continue at the college level. I knew I would want my main focus to be on academics during my college career, and competing at the Division III level allows me to continue my passion for my sport, while also earning a degree from a top university. 

Q: What qualities separate Division III from other divisions?

The best quality of Division III is the ability to be flexible with a rigorous academic schedule. All the coaches at Ohio Northern University have academics as the top priority and they are able to balance the student-athlete lifestyle according to each of their players. 

Q: What has been your favorite moment at Ohio Northern?

My favorite moment has been competing alongside my teammates during the OAC Swimming & Diving Championships each year. 

Q: What is your favorite part of being a Division III student-athlete?

My favorite part of being a Division III student-athlete is my teammates. The ability to talk to them if I am struggling and being able to laugh with them through hard sets. The common experiences of being a student-athlete with my teammates allows for a bond that will last a lifetime. 

Q: What is your plan for after graduation?

My plan for after graduation is to attend graduate school for Molecular Biology and continue my swimming career through my masters program.