[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 15]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 20452-20453]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING MARGIE DINGELDEIN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. DENNIS A. CARDOZA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 30, 2004

  Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Margie Dingeldein, a 
remarkable individual and outstanding athlete who as a member of the 
U.S. Olympic women's water polo team won the bronze medal at the 2004 
Olympic Games in Athens, Greece.
  Ms. Dingeldein was born and raised in Merced, California. Her talent 
and love for the water was recognized early when by age 3, she could 
swim across a 25 yard pool without coming up for a single breathe of 
air. Her energy and endurance continued throughout her career, placing 
her among the best female athletes to come out of the San Joaquin 
Valley.
  Ms. Dingeldein attended Merced High School where she was determined 
to maintain a well-rounded life. While competing in year-round sports, 
she remained committed to community service, and her studies, 
graduating as the valedictorian of the class of 1998. She completed her 
high school swimming career setting Central California Conference swim 
records in the 100 and 200 freestyle events, confirming that she was 
ready for her transition to Stanford University.

[[Page 20453]]

  While at Stanford, Ms. Dingeldein received three All-American honors, 
and helped the Cardinal appear in two consecutive NCAA Championships. 
She continued a family legacy of Stanford graduates, earning a pre-med 
degree in human biology in 2002. Her endurance and determination 
culminated with her Olympic appearance after 20 years of competition.
  Ms. Dingeldein's bronze medal has made her more than an Olympic 
medalist. Her international success made her a local hero, as she is 
among the first Olympic medalists from Merced County. As a role model 
for our youth, she serves as a superlative example that will inspire 
and encourage our young athletes.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Margie 
Dingeldein for her accomplishments. It is an honor to recognize all of 
her accomplishments and thank her for being such a fine role model to 
our community, and our country.

                          ____________________