Jacob Wade Swims to States

Sophomore swimmer Jacob Wade competed at the PIAA 2A State Championships at Cumberland Valley on March 19.

Wade finished as the state runner-up in the 100 freestyle and fifth in the 50 freestyle. 

During his swim career, Wade has used his goal of trying to be the best swimmer Suquehannock has ever had to win at states to motivate him to perform well. 

“I knew I had prepared and worked very hard for this moment all season,” said Wade. “I had enough preparation to give me the confidence to do very well that day. The race where I won silver was way different because that was the first time on my own that I really made a name for myself and my school.”

According to head coach Brian Wingert, Wade’s mindset was different from others which made him more successful. He knew Jacob was physically talented in the pool, however, his mental attitude set him apart from the rest of his teammates. 

“He is always looking for ways to improve and even outside of the pool,” said Wingert. “He has the mindset of ‘how can this make me better?’”

Brad Keeney, the athletic director, describes what it takes to be a successful athlete and uses Jacob as an example. He knows how much work swimmers put in, and people don’t realize that. Keeney had no doubt that Jacob had a shot at states because of his talent and great attitude. 

“First, you have to be willing to work harder than everyone else,” said Keeney. “Secondly, you have to have an attitude that is conducive towards improving everyday and you have to be able to deal with failure. Finally, you have to be goal-oriented and believe in yourself. Jacob does a great job of putting all of this together that has led to his success. By exhibiting all these characteristics, Jacob serves as a role model to the athletic program as a whole.”

After Wade’s victory at states, he has made a name for himself in his community. His goal for next year is to get offers from Division I schools, so he can continue his swimming career.