By Murray Gleffe
Correspondent
Name: Evelyn Geurts
Parents: Todd and Stephanie Geurts
Activity: Girls’ swimming
Geurts lists Simone Manuel as her favorite swimmer because of her positivity and dedication to academics.
Outside of the Community Pool in Ashwaubenon, Geurts lists the Pleasant Prairie RecPlex as a favorite place to swim in the state.
Talk about how difficult multiple events are to swim in an invite or sectional.
“I’m used to swimming events close to each other now since I’m nearing my fourth high school season, but it’s definitely an adjustment from club swimming where you have more time in between events.”
Talk about your new swim coach Kari Kleczka.
“It’s definitely going to be a transition for the team with new coaching, especially for the seniors and I who have had coach Jennifer Steffel for the past three years. However, I’m also excited for a fresh start and to see what our team can accomplish this year with both new coaches, as well as incoming freshmen.”
What is your most embarrassing moment in swimming?
“At a dual meet last year, we were getting ready for an important relay at the end of the meet (the 400-freestyle relay) and we all knew it was important to win. Unfortunately, the blocks at Southwest’s pool are slippery, and I completely slipped on my start, hitting my shin and falling in the water. It ruined my start in the 100-freestyle sprint. Not only did it hurt and look weird, but it wasted precious seconds which matter in swimming.”
What are your goals for the 2019 season?
“As a captain, I want to create a great team environment so we can have a successful season, win sectionals, as well as break the team record for the medley relay. Personally, I’d like to improve my breaststroke and sprint freestyle and possibly qualify in either my breaststroke or sprint freestyle for state individually.”
Talk about how your family has shaped you during your teen years.
“I’m thankful my family has always given me opportunities to travel but be independent at the same time. They have been supportive and given me all the things I’ve needed to be successful, both academically and in swimming.”
Lake Michigan or the bay of Green Bay for a swim?
“I think I’m good with the pool for now (laughing).”
What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
“Outside of swimming, art is a really big part of my life and has always been a passion for me.”
What does a typical swimsuit cost? Are there specific suits for different pools or conditions?
“Throughout the season, I use three different suits. My practice and regular race suit for meets both cost around $60. My other race suit which is sometimes called a ‘jammer,’ costs about $150. They’re thought to make you faster, and we only wear them for big meets at the end of the season like sectionals and state. These suits are so tight it usually takes around 30-40 minutes to get all the way on.”
What are your college aspirations?
“Stevens Point is my favorite college that I’ve toured, so I’m thinking about going there. I’d like to study graphic design and possibly swim.”
Mexico or Canada for a trip?
“I’ve never been to either, but I’d really love to visit Canada someday – especially Banff National Park to go skiing there.”
What are your hobbies?
“Drawing/painting/photography, travelling, cooking, skiing and other outside activities.”
What three words describe you?
“Outgoing, passionate, creative.”
Natalie Coughlin or Michael Phelps?
“Natalie Coughlin.”
Favorite two swimming events to watch at the Olympics?
“100 and 200 breaststroke.”
Have you ever tried water polo? If so, how difficult is it to stay afloat?
“We always play water polo as a team activity, and it’s pretty fun for everyone. Treading water the whole time adds an extra element of difficulty considering we’re all good swimmers.”
Favorites
Food: Any type of pasta
Season: Winter
Television show: Stranger Things
Sports item: Black leggings