The Kent Reporter athlete of the week for the week of Sept. 13 are from Kent-Meridian; Claire Eaton (Sr.) Swimming, Kyle Soper (Sr.) Cross Country.
What do you value in your sport or about your team?
Soper: I value the efforts to make oneself better than they were before. Especially when things are difficult, seeing a constant drive for improvement is all I can ask for. The results are amazing to see.
Eaton: I value the discipline it takes for swim; it is a team sport but when racing, swim becomes a you sport.
What have you learned from your sport that you can take with you throughout your life/future?
Soper: I’ve learned the value of hard work and consistency. Cross Country has taught me that putting in the effort, every time and frequently gives results that make you feel great physically and mentally.
Eaton: If you start too fast you will struggle to finish. In the 500 freestyle, slow and steady is key to have a successful race. The same applies for school, the ending is always the hardest, so preserve energy for it.
What do you do when you aren’t motivated and what helps you stay motivated?
Soper: When I feel unmotivated, I think about the little steps I need to take to achieve the larger ultimate goal. It is much more manageable to take things one step at a time, especially when the overall goal seems daunting.
Eaton: Sometimes a break helps, whether it is an hour or a day. Most of the time when I feel unmotivated is because I am. Taking a moment to catch my breath saves me.
Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?
Soper: No.
Eaton: My favorite pre-game meal is a ham sandwich from Subway with a white Gatorade.
What advice would you give to a teammate that is struggling?
Soper: If someone is struggling, I’d say they should remember the only competitor is themselves. Don’t feel the need to match the skill level of those around you. Take the steps you need to beat your PR or reach the next level of your workout. Just build consistency because if you’ve beaten yourself, that is an amazing win that leads to even more.
Eaton: Many times in swim we feels as though we are making no progress. I would recommend reflecting on old film, even asking how did you feel swimming at the beginning of the season. Tired, lost, sore? How do you feel now, do you feel the same? Many times, they don’t feel the same.
From the sidelines:
Soper: Kyle deserved athlete of the week because he shows up everyday with a positive attitude and strives to improve. He quietly leads and encourages the other runners on our team no matter their skill level. He is a phenomenal runner and willing to put in the effort to get even better. It is an honor to coach him and support his athletic journey.
Eaton: Claire is an incredible athlete, but an even more incredible person. She is a leader on the team, guiding her teammates to give 100% every day in practice and in the classroom. Claire is dedicated to working hard both in the pool and in the classroom. She is easy to coach and always improving her stroke. She is an asset to our team.
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