Hojan-Clark sets two state records during swim championships
One would think that Kelsey Hojan-Clark would kick back and enjoy the weekend after having a great performance at the WIAA Division 2 Girls State Swimming and Diving Championships on Friday.
After all, the Brookfield Academy junior set state records while winning two events at the University of Wisconsin-Madison natatorium.
But even though the high school season is officially over, Hojan-Clark was back in the pool with her club team Saturday morning, getting ready for nationals in December.
When it comes to Hojan-Clark, nothing surprises Brookfield Academy girls swim coach Krista Van Enkenvoort.
"She did an amazing job," Van Enkenvoort said. "She worked hard the entire season. She worked hard, had fun and did a great job.
"Sometimes I have to remind her to have fun. She competes with herself, has these goals and tunes out with herself. This helps her attain these goals."
Hojan-Clark won the 200-yard freestyle in 1 minute, 49.13 seconds to break the record of 1:49.94 set by Jamie Belfor of Shorewood in 1996.
Then she won the 500 free in 4:50.19, once again breaking Belfor's record of 4:53.94, set in 1996.
"It's a great feeling," Hojan-Clark said. "I don't take it for granted if that happens. When I swim I'm just going out to improve my times. I can't control what others do; I'm just trying to improve my own time."
She also makes sure to enjoy the moment.
"I'm going to improve my times, but I want to have fun with my races," she said. "State is a great experience. I love the atmosphere - going in there, getting good times, being with my friends and family. I love the sport, and I want to keep at it."
The fact that 25 students, including the swim team, were on hand to cheer her efforts shows what people think about Hojan-Clark.
Following the tournament they all went out to Ella's Deli in Madison for dinner.
"They are nothing but supportive of her," Van Enkenvoort said. "It was nice to see everyone there."
Hojan-Clark felt the same.
"I enjoy everyone at Brookfield Academy," she said. "I appreciate them all supporting me. Every meet, we go in as a team during the season, we are looking to support one another. We all want to improve our personal times. We're all proud of what we accomplished."
Van Enkenvoort was thrilled with Hojan-Clark's performance because of all her hard work.
"She's always in the pool," she said. "She trains a lot by herself. It was amazing for me to see her improve because she works so hard. She wants to improve. She is so determined.
"Watching her perform (at state), I was shaking it was so incredible."
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