Diving into Excellence: Hannah Howell Shines at Elk Lake Swimming – Scranton Times-Tribune

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Hannah Howell secured victories in two individual categories while also contributing to her team’s relay performance as Elk Lake triumphed 98-84 over Scranton Prep, ending the Classics’ impressive 73-meet winning streak. The senior from Elk Lake claimed first place in the 200 and 500 freestyle races, aiding her team’s record to 4-0 for the season.

Family: MaryBeth, mother; Stephen, father; sisters Lydia and Shelby.

Preferred cuisine: Crab legs. I celebrate my birthday annually at Myrtle Beach, where my favorite place is an all-you-can-eat buffet.

Rituals: I have worn the same goggles throughout each varsity swimming season. Before our relay, we always engage in a fun handshake that we initiated at districts.

Preferred subject: Environmental science.

Athletes I respect: Michael Phelps.

Favorite teams: Eagles and Phillies.

Ideal dinner companions: (Eagles defensive back) Cooper DeJean, Taylor Swift, and Lana Del Ray.

What went well for you in the pool this week: In practice, I realized the importance of focusing and looking ahead to what was coming. I was confident that, as a team, we would put forth our utmost effort, but I also knew I had to give it everything I had. I had been unwell the week prior, so I made it a priority to recover and take the necessary steps to stay healthy. Securing wins in both events was significant for our team, but that relay…was incredibly immense. Prior to getting behind that block, we were convinced we simply needed to secure first place.

How did illness affect your training: Occasionally, the water clears my system. I realize it may sound off-putting, but it genuinely does — the chlorine and all. Competing while unwell was a challenge. Each time I surfaced for air, I was gasping. I truly struggled to breathe, yet I understood we had such a significant event ahead, so I had to persevere. I did everything within my power at home — getting adequate rest, remaining hydrated, consuming nutritious foods — to support my team.

What did it signify to end Scranton Prep’s long streak: We’re all aware that Scranton Prep is an exceptional team. Honestly, it was remarkable that we managed to achieve it. We have consistently been quite competitive with Scranton, and we recognized that Prep and Abington Heights were going to be monumental meets for us. Our team chemistry is fantastic, which aided us immensely. We were thrilled as we approached the meet.

Did you all realize that the streak was at stake, as you approached the meet: Yes, we were aware. Our coaches were really emphasizing it to us the week prior. We understood it was going to be an extremely competitive meet. We’ve always been highly competitive, even during districts. Our relays were fiercely competing. We anticipated it would be a tough meet to nail down. Undoubtedly, there was a bit of pressure, considering their 73 meets. However, I believed in our team’s ability to deliver.

What is it about this particular Elk Lake team that contributes to your success: We possess such impressive team chemistry. Regardless of whether we have a good or bad day, we consistently manage to bring out smiles from one another. I believe that’s a truly wonderful aspect. Practice can sometimes be challenging. Yet in the end, we’re always sharing smiles and laughter in the locker room, uplifting each other. The sport is not solely physical; it’s mental too.

What are your team’s aspirations: I’m hoping everyone can qualify for districts. We’ve been fortunate over the past few years, and everyone has been able to compete at districts, which is an excellent achievement. In terms of relays, we reached states last year. We’re aiming to return there.

What are your personal objectives this year: To place higher at districts than I did the previous year. I always strive to surpass my past performance. I must give it my all in my final year.

Has it hit you that this is your last high school season: I’m not sure if it has completely registered yet, but I’ve definitely shed a few tears, I must admit. I participate in three sports: softball, soccer, and swimming. But everyone knows swimming is my absolute favorite. When the season concludes, it’s definitely going to tug at my heartstrings. I will truly miss it and all my fantastic teammates, my relay team, and my wonderful coaches. I am fortunate enough to say I will swim in college at Lock Haven University.

What are some changes you are looking forward to in college: I’m excited to meet new people and form new friendships within the team, although I’ll miss my current friends. I am eager to expand my horizons. I met my coach. He appears to be fantastic. I’m really looking forward to having him as my coach. It is indeed a bit stressful, leaving my family and everything. However, I believe it will be a wonderful experience. I adore the campus and appreciate the coaches and individuals there.

Why is swimming your favorite sport: I began swimming at a very young age. I have always been the most competitive in swimming, hence I have excelled a bit more compared to other sports. I was fairly good at softball and soccer, but in swimming, I’ve always shone, which is part of the appeal. When I enter that pool, my mind becomes clear. I simply love swimming.

What advice would you offer to future high school swimmers: My advice to them would be to take on a leadership role. Regardless of the circumstances, remain encouraging and cheerful. Even as a freshman, you should always aim to uplift others. Stay positive no matter what, you’ll truly notice a difference in everything.