Kit Schneider
Clarendon Hills
Senior
How is your senior season going?
We're all working really hard and we have big goals. High school goes by much faster than you think.
What do you enjoy about swimming?
I've always been a huge fan of being in water, and the whole idea of swimming and competing. I remember coming home from school one day and saying, "Mom, I want to compete in swimming."
How have your skills developed since freshman year?
I've improved on my practicing skills and on relying on my teammates. This is a team sport, and it's almost like we're family at this point. Having that support is super important.
What do you need to excel?
It takes a lot of strong will and discipline, because there are the days you don't want to practice. But pushing through those days is what sets a successful athlete apart from the others.
How would your teammates describe you?
I think as hardworking and, hopefully, as a leader of the team, someone who they can always go to.
What's been the season highlight?
Probably the Red-White meet because I got to step into the coaching role and choose my own team and set my own lineup. There's always a lot of team spirit, and it's such a good bonding event.
Any pre-meet rituals?
The team usually dances to the song "Cotton Eye Joe" to get us hyped up.
What's your goal for the rest of the season?
Swim super hard at state but also have fun. It's not really about the times, it's about the memories.
Next year's plan?
I've verbally committed to swim and study at UW Madison.
Why does coach Bob Barber like having Schneider on the squad?
Kit is a remarkable athlete that represents Hinsdale Central swim and dive program exceptionally well. Her talent is unmatched in the pool by most if not all of our competitors. As a returning state champion in the 50 free, Kit has and continues to lead our team to a high level of success. Within our storied history, she is one of the most versatile members of our team, leading the program in 10 of the 14 potential events.
- profile by Ken Knutson, photo by Jim Slonoff
