From High School to Olympic Swimming

July 11, 2012

Fans of U.S. Swimming already have plenty of reasons to cheer for Missy Franklin later this month at the Summer Olympics -- she's only 17, but qualified to compete in a U.S. women's all-time best seven events.

But fans of high school sports and what they provide athletes at all levels of ability can also support her for how she's chosen to compete when she's not racing against the best in the world.

Franklin, who lives in Colorado, has continued to swim for her high school team despite the financial rewards she could've earned by taking the elite swimmer's usual path of going pro.

A ton has been written about Franklin lately, for obvious reasons. Below is a link to a New York Times story from February that focused on her continued dedication to her high school team.

Before the Olympic Trials, There’s This Big High School Meet (New York Times)

The Wilson Rules (Battle Creek Enquirer)

May 17, 2012

Battle Creek's Dan Wilson has officiated football, basketball, volleyball, baseball and softball over 50 years of service, and was recently recognized for his half-century of work by the Michigan High School Athletic Association at our annual officials banquet.

The Battle Creek Equirer's Nick Buckley tells of the memories Wilson has made over the years and why he continues to be respected among his peers in the southwest part of the Lower Peninsula.

Calling it like he sees it for 50 years (Battle Creek Enquirer)