Athlete of the week: Kendall Mallaro

1. For you, what was a highlight of your most recent competition? 

At our most recent meet against Iowa city west, I earned the state qualifying time in the 100 butterfly.

2. What makes your sport special and different? 

Swimming requires a lot of dedication and hard work. We have two practices almost everyday so we are in the pool for 20+ hours a day. 

3. How long have you been into this sport, and what were the early days of your participation? 

 I have been swimming competitively for about 10 years. I started swimming for BLAST swim club in kindergarten.

4. How did/do you cope with any setbacks/losses you’ve experienced in your sport? 

When I have a setback and don’t get the time I want in an event I remind myself that I did my best and worked hard at practice so there’s nothing more I could’ve done to prepare myself. I try not to get too upset over adding time in my events and keep a positive mindset.

5. Who has been particularly influential in helping your growth in this sport? Why? 

My coaches and teammates have been very influential in helping my growth in this sport because they encourage me to do my best and support me through the ups and downs. 

6. What do you do to prepare yourself before a game? 

Before a swim meet I make sure to stay hydrated and relaxed. In addition, I stretch and listen to music before I swim so I get excited for my race and feel good about my stroke.

7. How do you work on improving your skills in this sport? 

I make sure I work hard at practice everyday, even when I don’t want to. When I get tired, I tell myself to keep going because all the hard work will pay off in the long run. 

8. What’s a personal skill that you are targeting lately?

This season I would like to make finals in both my individual events at state and get best times. 

9. Do you have plans to play this sport after high school, what are those plans? 

 Right now I’m not sure of my plans of swimming after high school.

10. What’s the most rewarding thing about your sport? 

The most rewarding part of swimming is seeing my improvement over the season and throughout each year. 

11. What has been a highlight for you/your team so far this season?

This season we have a new head coach, Chelsea and she has really improved team morale, which has made a huge difference in our work ethic. Our team has seen many best times and won almost every duel. 

12. As you see it, what are the biggest tests remaining for you/your team yet this season?

We are now entering the last part of the season, which means we will be tapering soon. Our team will have to make sure that we continue to work hard in these last few weeks so we can do great at state.