When I met McCann for the first time in March, she had just qualified for the U.S. Olympic Trials. At 16, she already had become one of the elite swimmers in the country in the 100-yard breaststroke.
As she chased down that goal, she swam exclusively for the Tacoma Swim Club. But her first season with the Gig Harbor High team was a big success, and coach Mike Kelly used her talents to improve the entire squad.
McCann won four medals at November’s 4A state championships, and her first-place time in the breaststroke was good for All-America status.
McCann was exhilarated after the final event, the 400 freestyle relay, in which the Tides finished sixth.
“Every time you get on the block, it’s so exciting,” she said, “and just being the anchor brings even more excitement. I just wanted to do my best for the team, which is always fun.”
Sports Editor Neil Pierson can be reached at 253-358-4155 or by email at neil.pierson@gateline.com. Follow him on Twitter, @gateway_neil.
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