By Murray Gleffe
Correspondent
Name: Ashlee Vyskocil
Parents: Jennie and Josh Vyskocil
Activity: Girls’ swimming
Twitter: @ashlee_vyskocil
What is it like to be a leader on the swim team at Ashwaubenon High School? “Being a leader on the swim team comes with many responsibilities but honestly it’s pretty fun. I may not be the fastest person on the team, but I show my teammates that hard work does pay off. Most importantly a leader is about being a role model and being down at the end of the pool cheering on your teammates during a competition. It is truly an honor to be a captain this year.”
What is your most embarrassing moment ever in swimming? “My most embarrassing moment in swimming was at the state meet last year. I was there as an alternate, but this experience was unforgettable. After you leave the pool deck, you aren’t allowed back in. I had accidentally left with my pants. I realized this and raced back in and begged the man to let me look around for them. However, someone had stolen them! Of course, I was the most responsible one in my room and they all made fun of me for it.”
How many years have you been involved in swimming? “I started swimming when I was six or seven. So, around 10 years.”
What is your most memorable moment? “My most memorable moment was the first time my team won sectionals. Although it was my first year on varsity, I was given the opportunity to swim the 100 back-stroke. The meet was very close until this particular race. All four swimmers who swam this event placed and earned points. I got 11th place and was super proud that I helped my team achieve a feat like that. It was the highlight of that season for me and still is one of my favorite moments from swimming.”
What’s the hardest part about performing in a swimming competition? “Getting told from your coach that your relay team must get a certain place or else we will lose the meet. Not only does it add pressure, but you don’t want to disappoint your team.”
If you could be somebody for a day, who would it be? “The president of the United States.”
What is your sports routine before a big game starts? “I usually try to get in the zone before warmup. Right before the meet starts the whole team cheers as loud as we can. That usually gets me pumped up to bring my A game to the meet.”
Do you have a nickname or something a teammate calls you during a game? “No”
What is one thing that other teammates or coaches don’t know about you? “I love to sing and have taken part in solo and ensemble for three years. I am very excited to be a part of Encore this year as well as Concert Choir.”
Winning individual honors or a big team win? “It always brings me more joy to see a big team win. I love self-recognition but what people don’t realize about swimming is the team atmosphere has to exist or else there is no winning.”
What are your college aspirations? “I’m planning on going to a four-year college for law or political science. I’ve narrowed my search down to the Midwest. Right now, St. Olaf, St. John, St. Benedicts, Xavier, or Eau Claire would be my choices.”
What would your dream job be once you graduate? “Something I can do that makes me happy but also makes a difference in people’s lives. For a real tangible job, I would love to be a senator or government representative.”
What are your hobbies? “I like to sing, hang out with friends, try new foods, travel, and watch movies.”
What is your favorite event ever attended? “Wicked,’ the musical I saw two years ago. I had wanted to see the performance since I was five and it was such a dream come true to watch it live.”
What is your favorite type of music? “I will listen to any kind of music as long as it has a good beat, good vocals, and good tune.”
What is your favorite thing to do on your phone? “Watch Netflix”
What three words describe you? “Kind, responsible, intelligent”
What is your favorite trip ever taken? “When I went to Hawaii for the band and choir trip last summer.”
TV or Outdoor Activities? “It depends on the weather. If it’s nice out, I love to sit in the sun.”
Favorites
Food: Shrimp tacos
Subject: History/government
Color: Caribbean blue
TV Show: “The Office”
Athlete: Katie Ledecky
Board Game: Clue
Candy: Dark chocolate
Ice Cream: Chocolate fudge brownie
Holiday: Christmas
Season: Summer