Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Dru Hershberger

Dru Hershberger outdid herself in more ways than one last weekend. 

The freshman set two new personal bests in the 200-meter and 500-meter freestyles at the FHSAA Class 1A-District 8 championship on Oct. 25. Her 5:09.97 mark in the latter event won gold for Sarasota Christian girls' swimming & diving, while a 2:01.35 in the former placed fourth. She also swims for Sarasota Sharks.

 Producing the only gold medal for Sarasota Christian at the postseason meet, Dru Hershberger is the Sarasota Athlete of the Week.

When and why did you start swimming?

I started swimming when I was six (years old) because my dad (Benji Hershberger) wanted me to do sport, and that was what he did when he was little.

On any given day, what do you enjoy most about getting in the pool?

I like it because it's kind of hot and it's just a good way to cool off. And it's fun to swim, and I just feel really good after I do it.

What's been the highlight of the high school season for you so far?

Districts last weekend, because I went best times in both of my events and I made it to regionals in all my events.

What were your goals entering your freshman season with Sarasota Christian?

I just wanted to be a leader on my team and maybe get some best times. But I already have, so I've kind of met my goals.

With the postseason now underway, what's been your recent focus in practice and preparing for competition?

Just to train and get ready for upcoming meets, really.

When you're not swimming, how do you like to spend your free time?

I like to read and I like to bake — cookies and cupcakes.

What's one quote or piece of wisdom that you live your life by?

"If it doesn't hurt, you're not trying hard enough."

If you could go anywhere in the world right now for a dream vacation, where would you go and why?

Hawai'i. I like the beach, and it's beachy. I also like snorkeling, and it's got good coral reefs to snorkel.

What is your favorite book series?

I like the Harry Potter books. Those are very good.

If you were stuck on a desert island with only one item to survive, what would you bring and why?

I'd bring my family because they could help me survive. And I would bring a tent, maybe.

What's your favorite meal?

Dessert.

What's your go-to hype music at practices or meets?

I like fast music. I don't really care about the genre, just as long as it's fast, and it's got motivational lyrics.

Finish this sentence. Dru Hershberger is...

Resilient.