Broken Arrow senior swimmer Claire McDaris accomplished a lot over the course of her high school career.
McDaris, who was nominated as a Broken Arrow winter athlete to feature in an online poll, was named to the Oklahoma Coaches Association Swimming East All-State team earlier this year to put a cap on a splendid career.
“It feels amazing to be chosen out of so many other amazing swimmers to represent Broken Arrow and the east side region,” McDaris said.
McDaris was a four-time state qualifier and will extend her swimming career at Quincy University (Illinois).
She had a pair of second place finishes in consolation finals at the Class 6A State Championship Meet in February. She posted a time of 2:02.34 in the 200 yard freestyle and had a 5:29.40 in the 500 yard freestyle.
McDaris also helped lead the Broken Arrow 200 yard freestyle relay team to a second place finish in another consolation final.
Her fondest memories happened during her sophomore and junior years.
“[My favorite memories] are when my medley relay tied the record my sophomore year and individual medaling my junior year in the 200 free,” McDaris said.
VYPE: What has your swimming taught you that you use in your daily life?
Claire: It has taught me to trust the process and to start everyday with a fresh mindset.
VYPE: Who is your favorite teacher from any grade and why?
Claire: Mrs. Bordofske, because I always had a safe space in her classroom and she always helps even though I am no longer her student.
VYPE: Who inspires you and why?
Claire: My sister, Jesse, because she works really hard to achieve her dreams and never complains.
VYPE: What teammate has left the biggest impression on you and why?
Claire: Kaylee Stika, because she is always making jokes and making practice better and has the ability to be really great.
VYPE: What is your favorite part about being on a team?
Claire: I get to help younger swimmers realize their potential to be better than they think they can be. I also get to have people that support me through the highs and lows of a season.
VYPE: You can pick any place for a summer vacation, where do you go and who do you take with you?
Claire: I would go to Charleston, South Carolina, and I would take my boyfriend, Bryce.
VYPE: Why are you passionate about your swimming?
Claire: Because win or lose there is always room to grow and get better, because win or lose, you can still have a great race.
VYPE: Here is your chance to say hello, goodbye or thank you to anyone you wish. Claire: I would like to thank my coaches and family for the opportunities they have given me to be the person and swimmer I am today.
Photo Credit: Hope Toliver
