Athlete of the Week: Laura Swartzendruber

After joining the Lakewood Ranch YMCA Wave Runners swim team less than two months ago, 7-year-old Laura Swartzendruber competed in the Area 5 Championship Swim Meet July 30-31 at the Selby Aquatic Center. The Gullett Elementary second-grader swam seven events, including a leg of the 100-yard freestyle relay from which she earned a bronze medal, in her first major swim meet. Here is an inside look at this week’s Athlete of the Week.

What did you think of the meet?
It was kind of hard, because it was mostly 8-year-old girls who were racing me.

What was your favorite part of the meet?
Doing the butterfly. I like doing the mermaid kick, and after the butterfly, I got to get a sno cone.

What’s your favorite stroke?
Breaststroke, because I can do the froggy kick.

Why did you decide to join the swim team?
This summer, my mom asked me if I wanted to try swimming and I said, “Yes.” I like splashing and playing in the water.

Do you know what you want to be when you grow up?
Maybe a veterinarian. I like animals, especially bunnies.

Who is your favorite Disney Character?
Minnie Mouse. She’s sweet.

Do you have any siblings?
I have a 9-year-old brother named Andrew.

What’s your favorite type of flower?
Tulips. They smell good.

If you could go anywhere on summer vacation, where would it be?
Disney World or Aquatica, Sea World’s new water park.

What’s your favorite dessert?
Mint chocolate-chip ice cream.

What’s your favorite TV show?
“Family Game Night.” It’s really funny.

Do you have a favorite food?
Spaghetti.

What activities do you do besides swimming?
I play the piano, and I might want to do soccer and dance camp.