Salina South High School’s Maeci Exline is a senior and a member of the varsity swim team. This season Exline is swimming four events and could not wait to get back to competition.

“I swim backstroke in the 200 medley relay, the 500 freestyle, the 100 backstroke, and the 400 freestyle relay,” said Exline.

It was early in elementary school when Exline and her parents decided to start swimming for more than just the fun of it. This year she was joined on the varsity team by her younger sister.

“I first started swimming competitively when I joined the Salina Aquatics Club in third grade,” said Exline. “I love being on the same team as my sister. We have been swimming with each other in the aquatics club for nine years and being able to continue with that in high school is really fun for the both of us.”

Exline said being a member of the varsity team at South is special and the students at South are unlike any other.

“I love how supportive my teammates are, not only towards our team but to the other teams we compete against,” said Exline. “I think that it is important to keep cheering on and supporting others even when the meet is not going as well as it should. It is rewarding to know that I represent my high school. I want people to look at our school and see something great, so I strive to be my best while representing it. South High School has a student body that is very open and accepting of everyone. The environment is always fun and positive, making the years go by fast.”

Her plans after graduation include opening a new chapter in her young life as a college student.

“After I graduate, I plan on going to Kansas State University to obtain a BSN and then going on to KU Med to become a Neonatologist or a pediatric doctor,” said Exline.

On her free time Exline said she enjoys watching movies and hanging out with friends and family.