from Coach Karen Shallbetter
Senior Hannah Wadholm has been an integral part of Delano Swim & Dive since her debut six years ago as a seventh grader. Hannah filled an empty void on the team by swimming the 200 and 500 free. It was not her favorite event, but Hannah gamely stepped into the role of distance swimmer with no complaint. TEAM matters most to Hannah, and she has lived those words over her past six seasons.
She has swum every event at some point during the season, and usually spends the early part of the season in the distance events as we work on getting the younger swimmers in shape. Hannah is a true leader and role model extraordinaire. This season, she swam a crushing event line-up when we had a number of sick athletes out at a dual meet. Hannah swam the 500 Free, the 200 Free Relay, the 100 Backstroke, and was the lead-off swimmer in the 400 Free Relay. Afterwards, she did mention that she couldn’t move her legs and didn’t really want to do that again! First complaint ever!
Four years ago, Hannah decided that sprinting was more to her liking, so her focus changed. She’s been extremely successful at the short sprints, focusing mostly on the 50 and 100 Free in the past few years. Last year, she made it to the State Meet in both the 50 and 100 Free, placing 10th in the 50 and 11th in the 100. Her goal this year is to be in the top eight in both events. Hannah is also an important part of our relay teams. She has traded off spots on the 200 Medley and 200 Free Relays all season, and has regularly held the lead-off spot in the 400 Free Relay.
As a Captain and Senior Leader, Hannah set the bar high with her strong work ethic and positivity. She and captain Karli Donley have worked to ensure that every team member feels valued, and every opponent is treated with kindness and respect. Each year, we complete the Findianapolis 500 on MEA Friday, and as you can see from the pictures I’ve included, Hannah’s smile and enthusiasm hasn’t changed from her 7th grade season to her current senior year. She is a spectacular young woman and athlete who will be sorely missed in the coming years.
Minnesota Swim and Vibe has actually known Waddy since she was in pre school swim lessons and has had the privilege of watching her grow in to the swimmer, leader and young woman she is today. We couldn’t agree with Coach Shallbetter more! Congratulations and Vibe on Hannah!
Section 3A Recognition Spotlight: Hannah Wadholm (Delano)
