No amount of preparation could ready Annika Dries for the announcement.
On May 17, the former Laguna Beach High girls' water polo standout realized a lifelong dream when she was one of 13 athletes named to the USA Olympic women's water polo team that will compete at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
"Normally, I am prepared. I have something to say or do or think," the 20-year-old said. "But the moment my coach (Adam Krikorian) told me I was an Olympian, I was speechless and filled with pure joy. I have worked and dreamed a long time about becoming an Olympian."
The whirlwind then began.
"I called my mom (Pam) first, and she was so ecstatic and proud," she said. "My dad (Eric) is a more quiet guy, but I know this really means a lot to him. He has always believed in me."
After the announcement at a press conference at the LA84 Foundation in Los Angeles, the team headed to Burbank to make an appearance on the "Tonight Show with Jay Leno."