Mead Student Pools Her Time For Success At Sport
Jennifer Weidert drives a car with personalized license plates that speak a tribute to her swimming ability.
She was affectionately nicknamed “The Beast” by a male contemporary on the Spokane Area Swimming Team who could not beat her.
It’s a sobriquet she’d just as soon not publicize, although it is emblazoned on her license plate and is testimony to hard work that has resulted in a 3.8 grade-point average at Mead High School and national attention in her sport.
The eight-year competitive swimmer is one of four local athletes who are approaching national senior meet qualifying times and who are being courted by NCAA college programs. She is the only girl.
“They are close to Olympic level,” said Coach Todd Marsh. “Jennifer has put in her time, worked hard and, hopefully, it will bring some financial rewards in a scholarship.”
Weidert competes in the 200 meter butterfly, 200 meter breaststroke and 400 individual medley and last year participated in the junior nationals.
She began swimming on summer recreation teams at Cannon Park Pool, where the coach suggested she join a year-round team.
A typical day for Weidert is to rise at 4 a.m. and drive from her Colbert home to Shadle Park for morning practice. Afterward she goes to her grandmother’s to prepare for school.
Following classes, it’s back to Shadle for afternoon practice. Then it’s home by 6:30 in the evening.
“Practice is hard, especially when you’re up until 2 a.m. doing homework,” she said. “But it is easier than studying when you know you have to be up in six hours and have a whole chapter to do.”
Not that a swimmer taking advanced placement (college credit) classes in school can’t have a social life with a little time management, or indulge in some television.
“It’s kind of the background noise when you’re doing homework,” said Weidert.
Because of the demands of and relative lack of local recognition for their sport, there is a bond that draws area swimmers together.
Family involvement is common.
Weidert’s younger brother, Jacob, and two youngers sisters, Janet and Jessica, are all on the team.
Talent levels may vary, but a long-term commitment can ultimately produce success for even the least talented swimmer.
“A lot of times you can tell if a youngster has talent,” said Marsh. “But swimming is not an instant success sport.
“You can get the worst kid on the team, and if he puts in time, it can pay off.”
So it was with Weidert, whose progress over the years has been measured in small increments.
“It can be frustrating,” she said, admitting she seriously thought about quitting at age 12.
“The hardest years are from 11-14, when your social life begins. It is the hardest time to stay committed.
“After 14, you can see the benefits.”
For her, a paid college education is one likely benefit. There are more swimming scholarships available in college for women than men.
The University of North Dakota, Southern Illinois University and the University of Wyoming have shown interest.
“She’s real marketable because of her grades and work ethic,” Marsh said of the girl who earned her nickname because of her relentless determination to succeed.
, DataTimes ILLUSTRATION: Photo