Swimmer of 12 years, senior Lilly Adams, has led the Kennedy Girls Swimming and Diving Team throughout her years on Kennedy. Her main events consist of the 200 Yard Freestyle and 100 Yard Backstroke with high school bests of 1:56.60 and 59.85 respectively.

Her mom pushed her to swim competitively when she was young and she is now able to pursue swimming as not only a competitive sport but also a hobby she can enjoy with her friends and family. 

“My favorite part about swimming is getting to meet new people and getting to see my friends all get better,” Adams said.

She makes sure to put her time in and outside of school as she tries to balance school and work along with other activities. 

“Lilly trains with incredible discipline. She pushes herself every practice, never settling for mediocrity. Whether it’s an early morning set or a tough dryland session, she gives full effort without excuses,” swimming coach Chad Derlein said, “She listens, applies feedback, and shows up consistently—her dedication is one of the strongest on the team.”

Adams is influenced by her grandpa who supports her in the stands and helps her continue her passion.

“I keep swimming because of my grandpa. He comes to every swim meet and is always there to support me, Adams said. “If he can’t make it to a meet then he always makes sure to call no matter what.”

Adams carries herself with strength and passion especially from the people around her and the goals she sets for herself.

“Lilly is motivated by her personal goals, but even more by her desire to reach her potential and contribute to the team,” Derlein said, “She seems to thrive on the challenge of pushing her limits and growing through the process. Her love for the sport and the next “thing” fuels her every day.”

Adams continues her swimming journey at Concordia–St. Paul in Minnesota. 

“My goal is to just keep going and keep making my family proud,” Adams said.