Role models play a big role in the lives of high school student-athletes. It could be a professional athlete that influences the athlete’s game or style of play, or it could be someone closer to home that plays a role in the overall person that they become. Kaela Beals says that the biggest role model in her life would have to be her mom.

“My mother has always been a good influence in my life,” she said. “She always believes in me and encourages me on my bad days. She does so much for me. My mother supports me through everything and even if some of the things she does are just simple acts of kindness, they make me feel loved and appreciated. Another big influence in my life is my coach. Coach Jenn takes time out of her day to make sure that all of us are doing okay. If I’m having a bad day or feeling sad, anxious, or upset, I will send her a text and she will always find a way to uplift me. She pushes me during every practice and I can physically feel myself getting better. I would not be the swimmer that I am today without her.”

Beals is a senior at Owasso High School where she is a member of the swim team. She enjoys the 200M medley relay and the 100M breaststroke.

Kaela says that while physical work and preparation are important, as a swimmer, mental toughness is just as important.

“Swimming is a sport that involves a lot of mental toughness,” she said. “It is all about your attitude. In this sport, being optimistic is a huge thing for me. If you have a bad swim, the worst thing that you can do is degrade yourself. You put in that extra effort and show how much you want it.”

Other than swimming, Beals is also a member of the National Honor Society since seventh grade. She is also a part of Owasso High School’s Athletic Leadership Council and Senior board. On the weekends, she works at McAlister’s Deli, where she has worked for over a year.