Wingspan: When did you start swimming?

Barnes: “I first started my freshman year and then I was a part of the team for two years.”

Wingspan: What’s your favorite part about your sport?

Barnes: “I would say mainly doing group work and spending time with my teammates.”

Wingspan: What do you think the hardest part about swimming is?

Barnes: “The hardest part would probably be the long and tedious practices and having to wake up super early.”

Wingspan: Who is your biggest role model?

Barnes: “My coach is my biggest role model because I look up to him.”

Wingspan: What is one thing people think about your sport that isn’t actually true.

Barnes: “Sometimes a lot of people think swimming is very hard. It is not easy, but it is not very difficult. It depends on how much experience you have and it takes practice. As long as you can stay above water and do at least one stroke, you’re good.”

Wingspan: Do you have any superstitions?

Barnes: “Before every meet we all do, kind of like a song, or a chant to motivate each other for the meet.”

Wingspan: Who’s your biggest motivator?

Barnes: “My teammates and my family are my biggest motivators.”

Wingspan: Why do you like swimming?

Barnes: “I like swimming because it is very active and gets me moving. It is also very different than most other sports you can play.”