North Kingstown welcomes Olympic medalist home
by James Swierzbin
Elizabeth Beisel couldn't believe her eyes, as thousands of well wishers cheered her return to Rhode Island, at a homecoming celebration in North Kingstown on Wednesday night.
The 19-year old Olympic swimmer was greeted by 2,500-people as she walked onto the football field at North Kingstown High School. It was a raucous welcome that Beisel wasn't expecting.
“I had no idea. I knew that there were going to be people, but I had no idea this many people would be here and I'm so excited, its so great.” said the 2-time Olympic medalist.
People started coming in to reserve their seats for Beisel's homecoming more than 3-hours before the 19-year old swimmer showed up. Many came with shirts and signs, showing their support.
Grace Frank made a sign welcoming Beisel home with her sister and mother, to show the Ocean State native, how much her Olympic efforts meant too so many, here in Rhode Island.
“She put in a lot of effort in so we just wanted to make this sign so she could feel better.” said Grace.
Fans weren't the only ones who showed up to cheer Beisel on.
Even her aunt and uncle showed up, with their own sign, to show their support.
“She had the focus and she managed to pursue this and make Rhode Island proud and we're thrilled for her.” said Beisel's aunt Justine Wolferseder.
And if the swimmer can keep her focus strong, she's hoping that in 2016, she'll be in the running, and get a chance to round out her Olympic medal collection.
“I would like to get one of every color, I have a silver and a bronze, so a gold would be nice.” said Beisel.
