By Lisa Stukel, Contributing Writer
Swim Team: Westborough High School Rangers
Coach: Bethany Bergemann
Background: Sophomore Katie Priest placed fifth in the Division 1 state meet in two individual events, setting records in both. In the 200-meter freestyle, she broke a record that had stood for 12 years. In the 100-m backstroke, she broke her own record from last year.
Katie, your swim season just finished up, how did it go?
“I felt very good about last season, and achieved my personal best in two events. The team lost quite a few seniors last year, but we still had a very good season.”
When did you start swimming?
“I started swimming when I was 9 years old. We moved to Westborough and I began swimming at the Westborough Tennis and Swim Club. They have a very good swim program.”
Who has influenced you the most in swimming?
“My mom has been most influential. She has always been supportive of my swimming, and takes me to all of my meets. My brother is also very supportive and cheers me on when I swim.”
Do you have a most memorable moment?
“Yes, I was at the league meet last year, and I got my best time in the 200-m freestyle. My grandmother from Cape Cod came to see me swim. My whole family was there to support me, but it was even more special with my grandmother being there.”
How do you manage sports and academics?
“I think that swimming helps me with academics. I have to be organized and get my work done right before or after practice. Our practices are from 4 to 7 p.m. every day and I also swim on a USA team. It is very busy. If I am not swimming, I am doing homework.”
Do you have any advice for younger student athletes?
“Yes, I would have to say, to find a sport that you really like and stick with it. Work hard and don's get down on yourself. If you continue to work hard in practice, it will eventually pay off.”
Are there any new stroke techniques that help swimmers lower their times?
“I am always learning new things and working on my stroke technique. My worst stroke is breaststroke and I am working moving more forward in my stroke and working on a more effective kick. We swim in LZR swimsuits, which seem to help reduce the drag in the water as well as using no-fog goggles, which helps me see better.”
Do you swim in the off-season?
“I swim all-year round. I swim for the Crimson Aquatics U.S. swim team as well. I swim in the summer in Whitinsville, and will get one week off. Sometimes we have a few days off.”
What are your plans for next year?
“I plan to swim for Westborough High School, and to continue to work hard to improve my times.”