What are your plans after high school?
After high school I will be heading to California to attend Stanford University where I will continue my academic and athletic career.
What has been the best moment so far this season or in your high school career?
The best moment of my high school career was during High School State 2019. My teammate and I were able to win four state titles collectively and I was able to swim on relays with my sister and my best friends.
How was your off-season training impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic?
My offseason training was different than in years past because of the pandemic. Our club pool was closed for about a month so I was doing a lot of running and dryland to stay in shape. After a couple weeks I began swimming in backyard pools. Once the pools began opening again we were able to go back to training with our club coaches, but the time in the water was shortened. During the first phase of reopening we were only able to swim for around 6 hours/week where we would typically be going for around 18 hours.
How has your participation in high school athletics helped you to grow as a person and student?
High school sports has helped me grow as a person and as a student by giving me so many mentors, role models, and friends. The West/Liberty Swim Team has become my family and their support and guidance has pushed me to become a better person.
To you, what makes a good leader?
I think a good leader is someone who is accepting and open minded. Someone who is supportive and there for anyone when needed. I think a leader is most effective when they motivate and push others to become leaders themselves.
Who is your favorite athlete? Why?
My favorite athlete is Simone Manuel. Not only is Simone Manuel an Olympic gold medalist and world record holder, but she uses her platform to push for more diversity in the swimming world.
What is the most memorable service project you have done with your team?
The most memorable service project I’ve done with my team is Kinnick Stadium clean up. After Hawkeye home games our district cleans up the stadium and raises money for our athletic department.
What are three life skills that you have learned from athletics that will help you for the rest of your life?
Athletics have taught me work ethic, time management, and collaboration (team work).
- Spotlight written by Noah Christensen, Waukee APEX Associate
IGHSAU Student-Athlete Spotlights are created by high school students in Waukee High School's APEX program. The IGHSAU is thankful for its partnership with Waukee APEX to create meaningful content to share with our member schools, student-athletes, coaches, and fans. To learn more about Waukee APEX, click here.