By Matt Browning

Claire Conover of Kapaun Mount Carmel was voted as the Wichita Large School Preseason Girls Swimmer of the Year. Conover received over 13,000 votes, which was 32 percent of the overall vote.

At the 2019 Class 5-1A tournament, Conover took second in the 200-yard individual medley and third in the 100-yard breaststroke, while also being a part of the Crusaders’ 200-yard medley relay and 200-yard freestyle relay—both of which took third. Kapaun took second as a team.

“It means a lot to me and it makes me very excited for the upcoming season,” said Conover on being voted. “I have so many supportive friends and family that are constantly rooting for me and that are always by my side.”

While Conover is hoping to improve on her times and finishes at the state tournament this season, she also just wants to take it all in and enjoy the season.

“I just want to have fun but also go out on a good note,” Conover said. “Ever since my junior season got cancelled because of COVID-19, I’ve been more motivated than ever to do the best that I can.”

Outside of swimming, Conover is also a part of STUCO and Crusaders for Life at Kapaun. Next year, she is going to swim at Drury University and would like to become a Physician Assistant.