When and why did you start swimming?
I started swimming when I was 8. My parents signed me up for it, and I stuck with it. I stayed in swimming because I enjoy meets and going to practice. During the offseason, I swim for the Hurricanes.
How have you grown as a swimmer throughout high school?
I’ve managed to drop time every single year, i’ve been able to change my attitude about racing and just have a better mental mindset going into races.
What is your pre-race routine?
Generally, I jump around behind the block a little bit, not a lot. I’ll slap my arms and legs, which is a common thing swimmers do. It sounds weird, but that’s it.
What is your favorite memory of swimming for Park?
Making state was a lot of fun. We also won the Kennedy invite this year, so that was quite fun. I really love all the team bonding things we do, like the sleepover and how supportive everyone is. I also enjoy having meets every week.
Do you have any fun swimming facts about yourself as an athlete?
I have a weird superstition where I will only ever wear an orange ponytail holder when I swim. (It) doesn’t make any sense—I don’t know why, but I haven’t swam without an orange ponytail holder since I was 12.
What is your favorite high school swim event?
I really like the 500. It’s just kinda fun and I like doing longer races. I don’t know why I like longer races but they are fun to do and make you feel accomplished afterward. During high school, our coaches pick out events and they usually put us in events that they think we can score points in.
What is something that swimming has taught you?
I learned (that) if I have a bad race, the world’s not going to end. It’s helped me with that and translating to other schoolwork like the world won’t end if something goes wrong.
Who is your favorite swimmer?
My favorite swimmer is Kate Douglass because she has some really interesting ideas about racing. She also always looks like she’s having fun, which I appreciate.
Do you hope to continue swimming in college?
I’m looking at something at either Gustavus or Puget Sound next year.
