West De Pere High School, Track & Field and Swim
Parents’ names: Ryan Kibbe and Hope Kibbe
Siblings: Amarissa Kibbe, Landon Kibbe, Charity Kibbe
Instagram: @faith.kibbe
X: @faithkibbe
Position/Events:
Track: 100m, 200m, 400m, 4×100, 4×200, 4×400
Swim: 50 free, 100 free, 100 fly
Career highlight:
4x Track and Field State Champion
6x state qualifier in Track
2x state qualifier in Swim
What originally inspired you to run track?
Since I can remember I’ve loved racing. I used to race my parents, running circles around our house. My mom was a track star in high school, so from a young age, I knew I wanted to run track.
How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from freshman to senior year?
I remember coming into high school thinking my raw talent in athletics and academics would get me through all four years. But after encountering setbacks in school and sports, I realized I needed to work hard to be the person I wanted to be. I learned to prioritize studying and training, and though this made my schedule feel like a lot at first, it got easier to balance the more I matured.
Favorite subject in school and why?
My favorite subject is definitely social studies. I really enjoy learning about people, and there’s a variety of classes that I can take (history, ecology, geography, psychology, etc.).
Is there a favorite drill in practice that you enjoy doing?
I love doing A-skips and B-skips. I think they’re funny, but they actually really help with speed.
What is your favorite event and why?
Definitely the 4×400. It’s the last event of the meet, and everyone lines up against the fence to cheer us on. The energy is always there, and I love it because it’s the final impression our team will make that day, so we just go out and give it our all. I’ve actually run 4x4s at 11 p.m. and 1 a.m., which was a crazy experience. It’s also a West De Pere specialty, with our boys and girls; teams being state champs in 2022 and girls in 2023.
Who, in your opinion, is the G.O.A.T. athlete?
I’d honestly have to say Michael Jordan. I just think he had one of the best mindsets of any athlete, and that’s a huge reason why he was so successful.
What is the hardest part about track?
Track is such an individual sport, which I love and hate at the same time. It can be easy to put a lot of pressure on myself. That’s why I’m so grateful for awesome coaches who really stress the importance of being a team.
Being a senior, describe some leadership roles that come into play.
Going into my last year of high school, I’ve faced a lot of challenges, and I’ve learned a lot. I feel like it’s my job as a senior to help underclassmen learn from my mistakes and to be there for them when they go through some of the same challenges.
What is your ultimate pre-meet routine?
Definitely visualization and prayer. I don’t always eat the same thing for breakfast or do the same stretches, but I always take time to put myself in the race, pray for protection and thank God for where I’m at.
Favorite collegiate or professional sports team?
I’d have to say UT Football. My dad is an alum, so they’re a family favorite.
What shoes are you rocking with this year for practice and meet-days?
Right now, I’m loving my Hoka Mach 5s, my New Balance Vongo V6s for training/practice and my favorite spikes in the world: the Nike Maxfly.
Do you enjoy weight training or conditioning more?
It really depends on the day. Conditioning hurts so bad sometimes, but I always feel so good afterward. I also love being able to see my weights increase and lifting with teammates.
How did it feel to qualify for state? What was the most rewarding aspect?
Qualifying for state and sharing that joy with my teammates are memories I’ll never forget. Seeing where the hard work can take you is so rewarding.
Are there any memorable coaches or teammates you would like to give a shout-out to?
Our head track coach, Coach Zellner, does such an amazing job of creating a healthy team culture. He makes everyone feel seen, and so do the rest of our coaches. I also have to thank my relay buddies for pushing me and always giving it their all for the team.
What are your plans for the future (college/major/career)?
I plan to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point and run track for their team. As of now, I plan to major in Business Management.
Any advice you would give to your younger self?
I would tell my younger self that no matter what, God has a beautiful plan for your life, and all you have to do is try your best, and He’s got the rest.