By Hayden Swope
Bree Pickerell of McPherson has been waiting a long time for this exciting year, and has high hopes and expectations for herself and her swim team.
“This year is a little bittersweet. I am excited since this is my senior year, but I’m also sad as it will be my last year competing in high school,” Pickerell said. “We have an amazing group of girls on our team this year, and I am eager to see what we can accomplish. We have five seniors returning this year, so I feel we have the experience to have a great season and take a relay team to state.”
With years of experience, Pickerell knows what’s best for her as an athlete, and is putting it all to the test for her final season.
“To prepare for this season, I have been practicing my turns and underwaters to improve my times, and I have also added some morning practices on my own,” Pickerell said. “I am also cutting back on junk food and trying to eat healthier and up my protein. My greatest weakness is that I tend to scissor kick, so I have been working hard on my form.”
While Pickerell has a love for swimming, that’s not the only thing you’ll find her doing. When she’s not in the pool, you may find Pickerell using her skill in the art room. Her love for art is what is going to further her in her educational journey.
“I plan to attend Hutchinson Community College and then transfer to Wichita State University to get my bachelor’s degree in graphic design,” Pickerell said. “Unfortunately, neither school has a swim team, but I will continue to swim because I have always found it to be a good way to destress and stay in shape. I also plan on participating in the sport as a coach for my old club team, the McPherson Aqua Pups.”
