The Kent Reporter athletes of the week for the week of Jan. 24 are from Kentlake; Kaylin Giles (So.) gymnastics, Carson Haspe (Jr.) swim.

What do you value in your sport or about your team?

Giles: Everybody is so supportive and cheers each other on, even if they aren’t competing.

Haspe: I value both my physical fitness and mental health as they have improved significantly since starting competitive swim. I also value my friends and the social opportunities that come with being on a team.

What have you learned from your sport that you can take with you throughout your life/future?

Giles: Persistence is key. You will almost never get it on the first try, so sticking with something is important.

Haspe: I have learned that with consistent and repetitive, intense effort. You will grow strong and continuously improve over time. Your progress depends on the effort and time you put into your sport.

What do you do when you aren’t motivated and what helps you stay motivated?

Giles: Listening to music always keeps me motivated and taking a break helps when I am not motivated.

Haspe: When I am not motivated, I remember the hunger and desire to be better and the feeling of success. I always try to be better, especially when it’s uncomfortable. My family and teammates always help me to stay motivated and remind me of what my ultimate goals are.

Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?

Giles: Spaghetti is the best way to go!

Haspe: My favorite pregame meal is a balanced breakfast of high protein carbs and nutrients. This helps me prepare for a strong healthy swim.

What advice would you give to a teammate that is struggling?

Giles: Stop, take a breather, and don’t give up!

Haspe: My advice to a struggling teammate would be that when it hurts and you want to give up and go home, to remind yourself that in this moment you have the best opportunity to get better and you need to continue to always try during those painful times. Remember your goals and that things are always tough at first, but they will get easier as you stay consistent and get stronger.

From the sidelines:

Giles: Kayelin has done a wonderful job as stepping up as a captain this year for gymnastics, it’s her first year on the team & first year doing gymnastics in all but her dedication to the sport and eagerness to learning new skills and constantly wanting to get stronger and better is a “breath of fresh air.” She goes above and beyond by helping out her teammates during meets and stepping up as a leader for her team. We are so proud of Kayelin and cannot wait to see what she does in the future.

Haspe: Haspe has been chosen by her coaches as our Athlete of the week, not only for his attendance but because of the hard work he puts in each day at the pool. Carson is a leader in the pool. He was selected as a captain as a junior. He works hard from the moment he enters the water. He is always swimming, hardly resting, and doing it all with a smile. . We appreciate the high quality of sets Carson swims each day and the positive example he is for the rest of the team.