Noah Priest
senior
Hinsdale
When did you start swimming?
I've been swimming since I was 6, first on the Hinsdale Town Team, then I moved to the Hinsdale Swim Club until age 10. Now I train with FMC Aquatics out of Westmont on their national team (when not competing for Central).
What are your strongest events?
The 50, 100 and 200 freestyle. I used to swim butterfly but I switched to freestyle. My favorite race is the 200 freestyle, because you have to conserve your energy a little bit in the beginning so you don't use up and can finish the final 50 strong.
How have you improved since freshman year?
I've definitely gained a lot more race experience and technical knowledge. And I enjoy swimming on the 200 free and 400 free relays with my teammates.
What's your goal for the season?
To win the state meet.
What does being voted a team captain mean to you?
Being able to step in that leadership role and have underclassmen look up to me and ask for advice has been a real cool experience. After my freshman year, Coach Barber was giving us our pins and he handed me a captain's pin by mistake. He took it back and said, "You haven't earned that yet, but maybe someday." This year it finally came together.
How would you teammates describe you?
As competitive, a strong leader and a good friend. I always try to look out for all members of our team.
Any other activities?
I'm an officer of the HC Investment Club and I'm in the National Honor Society.
Siblings?
I have a twin sister, Lauren, and younger brother, Zach, who's a freshman. They're both swimmers, too.
Where to next year?
I've committed to swim at Boston College, and plan to study computer science and economics.
Why does coach Bob Barber like having Priest on the squad?
Noah is a bright young man that has committed a lot of time and energy to the sport of swimming. He leads our team both in and out of the pool and takes on a special role as a team captain. In the pool he is one of our fastest. We call on him in a time of need, and it doesn't matter if it's the sprints or a distance event, I always know I can count on him.
- profile by Ken Knutson, photo by Jim Slonoff
