Q: How long have you been playing?
A: Swim for 5 years, ski for 1 year, and rowing for 1 year.
Q: What motivates you?
A: I have a natural competitive drive to want to succeed and do the best I can. My teammates also play a huge role in motivating me to work hard.
Q: What was your best season? Why?
A: My freshman year swim season was probably one of my best seasons. This was because it was my first high school season and the workouts pushed me on a new level. I not only grew as an athlete, but also as a person.
Q: Why did you decide to start playing the sport you do?
A: My 5th grade gym teacher, Mr. Koperski, told me I should join the swim team. At first I was skeptical, but I decided to try it out. I consider it one of the best choices I’ve ever made.
Q: What is the ultimate goal you can imagine related to your sport?
A: Being able to compete individually at states in 100 fly would be a dream come true.
Q: What have been your biggest achievements in athletics?
A: Last year I got to swim on a relay at states, which was an amazing experience. More importantly, I have gained more self-confidence and fun experiences through athletics.
Q: How do you think coaches can be more effective?
A: I think coaches could be more effective if they spent some more time talking one on one with their athletes about their athletic performance but also their physical and mental needs and wants.
Q: What are your main strengths in your sport?
A: Despite how hard practice can be, I know that I can always get through it with a good attitude…most of the time.
Q: What do you need to improve on?
A: I need to work on not getting so nervous before I compete. Sometimes I focus so much on my upcoming races that I stress myself out and I forget to have fun.
Q: What do you like about training?
A: When training, sometimes we have really hard practices. Even though it’s hard, it feels good to finish a tough practice knowing that you gave it your all and made progress towards your final goal.
Q: What do you dislike about training?
A: Although I enjoy working out in the weight room, waking up for morning practice three days a week can get so exhausting! The swimmers always have a positive attitude so it’s easier to get through it together.
Q: Who are your biggest inspirations?
A: I really look up to the captains on the swim team because they are able to dedicate themselves fully to swim in addition to being great leaders and role models. Even if they have a bad race, they still cheer on others!
