Kelsey Fickes had her last home meet on Thursday, and closed out her career in Big Springs' pool with her season-best 25.66 in the 50-yard freestyle.
Not that she is done, by any stretch. That time puts the senior at No. 7 in the midstate swimming leaders' list in the 50 freestyle.
She is also No. 9 in the 100 freestyle with a 55.98. Fickes also has a 1:05.94 in the 100 butterfly to her credit.
When and how did you get involved in competitive swimming?
My mom [Lynn] was a swimmer, so when I was seven I was taking swimming lessons and I decided to be in PCACs.
Who is your mentor within the sport of swimming?
I would have to say my mom because anything I've need she helps me out with. And definitely my coaches through the years too.
How much time to you spend in practice?
On an average non-meet day, we get in the pool at 3 p.m., then its over around 5:15 and cool down until about 5:30. ... During the summer swim team season, we do Monday-Wednesday-Friday practice schedule from 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.
Which is your favorite event?
Probably the 100 freestyle, because I do well in it, but also because it fun. In the 100, you have time to fix your start, where in the 50 you have to precise. But the 100 is still a sprint and I enjoy sprints.
With Mid-Penns and the District 3 Meet coming up, which is more important to you: place or time?
My time. It's the time that reflects the hard work you've done all season. ... If you place with a bad time, you're not showing that hard work.
What are your goals for the postseason meets?
To swim hard and have fun. It's my last year, so it would be nice to get a record. But short of that, I'd be happy with a personal record.