Q&A with Coach Stephanie Stilen
By Erik Buchinger
Number of years as head coach: First.
Returning varsity athletes: Sami Smejkal (12), Willow Skar (10), Brianna Foth (10), Kelly Smith (10).
Team goals/expectations: I expect that the girls will be dedicated and put a lot of hard work into becoming better athletes this season. The main goal this season is that the swimmers will all improve and swim many personal bests.
Team’s strengths: We have a strong team with hard working, talented swimmers. These girls have a lot of experience swimming competitively and will be tough to beat in individual events.
Team’s weaknesses: With numbers down this year, we will not be as strong as a group as we have been in the past. Unfortunately, we don’t have enough swimmers to fill all the events with multiple swimmers, and that is crucial for earning points at meets.
Biggest event on the schedule: Our most important event this season will be our conference championship meet on Oct. 25 in Shawano. At this meet, the girls will be in top swimming shape and be able to compete with swimmers across the Bay Conference.
What would make for a successful season: A successful season this year would mean that each swimmer feels successful due to the work they’ve put into swimming in and out of the pool. My hope is that each girl can finish the season knowing that she pushed herself the most that she could.
Why fans should be excited for this year’s team: Fans should be excited this year because we have a very strong group of girls. I expect a lot of close races and first place finishes throughout the season. Even though we have a small team, I think our meets will be a lot of fun to watch.