Sunday, September 8, 2024
Ashwaubenon High School, swimming
Parents’ names: Bill and Cathy Schuch
Siblings: Matthew Schuch
Insta: @erin.schuch
Position or events: 200, 500 freestyle
Career highlight: Winning a state title in the 500 freestyle this past year.
At what age did you start playing your main sport?
Seven years old.
Who introduced you to the sport?
My parents, we had a cottage in Lakewood that was on a private lake. Because there was no recreational water activity I was able to swim across the lake often with my mom. I started doing this around five and ever since then I’ve loved the water.
Has this always been your favorite sport?
Yes.
How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from your freshman year to your senior year?
It’s definitely been more of a struggle as I’ve gotten older. I also run track and training for that through winter while also swimming six nights a week is very tough. As the classes get harder so does balancing it all but it’s very rewarding to be able to do both.
What is your favorite part about this sport? What about it has caused you to stick with it for this long?
My favorite part about this sport is how hard it is. Which I know sounds crazy but I am drawn to hard work. The feeling of accomplishment after a killer workout is hard to beat. The discipline and consistency that swimming, and especially distance swimming, provides is what draws me in most. I’ve also met so many of my best friends through the sport so the camaraderie of it all is also a big factor for me.
Is there a professional athlete you look up to? If so, who?
Yes, Katie Ledecky of course. She has been the best in the game for so long. I also admire her humility. You can tell she is a leader on Team USA and really important to the young people coming up each year.
What would you say is your biggest asset in the water?
My biggest asset is my faith and my mindset. I’m a big believer in “if you believe you can, you will.” I don’t have to be the fastest or strongest in the pool I just have to want it the most and I will succeed. I also recognize that failure is inevitable and with a faith in God to fall on, I understand those moments of failure don’t define me.
What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?
It would make sense to say my State win, but probably racing and placing second with my freshman and sophomore year 200 and 400 freestyle relay team. Those girls got me through my first years of high school. There’s no magic quite like racing with your best friends and siezing records and All-State awards.
How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?
It feels amazing. I was a relay only swimmer at state my freshman year. I missed the cut in the 100 fly by one place and I was heartbroken. I’m so glad I went through that though because it makes my successes that much more special. It’s been a lot of mental work to get to now but I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
Do you have any pre-match rituals/routines/superstitions?
Before a distance race, I listen to SZA and do some yoga.
Do you take any extra steps to prepare for a big match/game/meet, outside of regular practices?
Yes, I use visualization as a tool, which is something that my club coach taught me. You start a timer, close your eyes and visualize a specific race, troubleshooting the time it would take you and try and get it on or as close to your PR as possible. This is proven to be just as beneficial as physically swimming the race.
I also lift and do yoga.
Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to give a shout out to?
Yes, my best friend and teammate for the last ten years; Sienna Nitke. She’s off to Purdue to swim in less than a month. Love you lots Si!
Any hobbies outside of sports?
I play guitar, sing and write songs.
Favorite song?
“Better Man” by Taylor Swift.
Sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade or water?
Zoa Energy (please sponsor me!)
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I can walk on my hands for 20 yards.
Future Plans? (college, major, career, etc.)
I am going through the recruiting process right now. I hope to commit by fall.
