Full Name: Heather Nicole Bounds Date of Birth: October 15, 1984 Birthplace: Austin, TX Hometown: Round Rock, TX College: University of Miami (Business Management major)

How long have you been diving?
I’ve been diving for 8 years.

What diving teams have you been a member of?
I have competed for Texas Aquatics, The Woodlands Diving Team, and the University of Miami college and club teams.

List Diving Achievements:
• 5th on Women’s Platform- Summer Nationals 2006
• 4th on Women’s Platform- US Open 2006
• 10th on Women’s Platform- NCAA Championships 2006
• 1st on Women’s Platform- ACC Championships 2006

What are your hobbies outside of diving?
When I’m not in school, I’m at church or a church-related activity. I love to go country line dancing, the movies, the beach, and going to get ice cream with friends. I also enjoy reading, watching football and the Food Network.

What do you do between dives at competition?
I listen to my iPod, play cards or talk with other divers.

If you could meet anyone, who would it be?
Jesus, because he was the greatest man and teacher that has ever lived.

What’s in your iPod or CD player right now?
I’ve been listening to the new Chris Tomlin CD in my car. My iPod is usually on shuffle, so I never know what I’m going to get.

What is your favorite dive to do?
I love 407C on 10 meter. I like going after this dive. I feel like I’m flying.

What has been your biggest obstacle?
It has been hard for me to overcome my own fears and lack of confidence in my abilities as a diver. My faith in God has helped me to conquer these weaknesses.

What is your favorite food?
Mexican—Tex-Mex is in my blood…Is ice cream a food group?

Who has inspired you the most?
Laura Wilkinson and Kimiko Soldati have been a great inspiration for me. These women have guided me closer to God and have taught me to have faith in my abilities as a person and diver.

What are your favorite movies?
Talladega Nights, Billy Madison, The Bourne Identity, The Incredibles, The Italian Job, When Harry Met Sally…the list could keep going!

If you could do any other sport, what would it be and why?
I would be a surfer. I love the beach and the ocean but I’ve never had the time or resources to surf. Plus I would always have a great tan and wear cute Roxy swimsuits.

What city is your favorite to visit?
Austin , Texas …Home sweet home.

What is your most embarrassing “diving moment?”
Today at practice was pretty embarrassing. I was trying to do 5152B on 3 meter, but I had a bad hurdle so I didn’t twist and I did a triple to my feet. It was pretty funny…we got it on Tivo.

What is the best advice you have received from a diving coach?
Randy Ableman has been a great influence on me. Through his coaching style and personality, he has taught me to love diving, work hard, reach my goals, and enjoy life at the same time. He always tells me to keep smiling and never to lose my sense of humor.

What advice can you offer young divers as they progress through this sport?
My advice would be to have fun, enjoy what you do, and believe in yourself. Having self-confidence is important to reach your diving goals, as well as your future life goals.