School: Mt. Vernon
Grade: Senior
Sport: Swimming
Events: 200 and 500 freestyle, 400 freestyle relay
Nominated by: Head coach Matt Kruse
Signature moment: Gawrys racked a couple of memorable moments recently at Feb. 7’s sectional meet at New Palestine. Not only did she break the six-minute mark in the 500 freestyle for the first time in her career (5:58.83), but she also swam as part of the event-winning and state-bound 400 freestyle relay team.
Coach’s take: “She was trying to break through that six-minute barrier all season,” Kruse said. “A 6:08 was her best during the year, and she was worried she would not be able to drop it below six for sectionals. Then she swam a six-double zero at the prelims. After that, she was then determined to swim faster during the sectionals. She did, and when she hit that 5:58, it was pretty cool.
“What’s amazing about Sam is she is ranked second in her class (in terms of GPA). She’s got over a 4.0. She is an extremely smart, well put together young lady.
“Sam also has helped me out a lot. Since it is my first year here, I wasn’t quite up to speed on team traditions and things like that. But she was always in my office a week before, saying ‘What are we going to about this or that,’ and helping me figure things out. She served as a spokesperson for the seniors and has helped make sure everything was still getting done. She’s been a great leader.”
Beyond the Box Score recognizes athletes’ leadership and achievements that don’t always stand out statistically. For more information on BTBS, email [email protected] or call 317-477-3227.
