Sara Wagner hasn't been overly concerned whether or not she finishes among the top three competitors in the 50, 100 and 200 freestyle events. She also isn't that concerned about not having qualified for the upcoming district meet.

Instead when the swimming season officially ends for the Whitehall senior, Wagner will be concerned about missing her family away from home.

"It will be tough leaving here," she said. "We have been a tight-knit group, a true family. Sure, we have our fights and disagreements, but we all have been very supportive of each other over the years.

"Swimming has been a good outlet for me and it also has been a good outlet of friendship."

Head coach Pete Rile recognizes her contributions in and outside the pool.

"Sara stated swimming as a freshman and she really enjoyed the whole atmosphere," said Rile. "She always has been very encouraging to everyone and truly appreciates everyone's support.

"She has been a good role model to the younger swimmers and is one of those people who you hate to see leave your program."

Wagner began swimming in second grade in the Whitehall Waves program with her older brothers Dave and Mike. Over the past two years, she has been a coach in the program.

"I had to take some swimming lesson in the spring so I could join the Waves in the fall," she recalled. "My brothers started swimming in the spring and then we all swam in the fall.

"Both of them have been inspirational to me and have really helped me along the way. They have always been there for me."

Aside from swimming, Wagner has also been active in the school's drama club since her freshman year as well as the school's choir and chorale.

"I really enjoy singing," she said. "It has also been a big part of my life. I have taken part in the school's plays as an ensemble actor and that also really worked out for me.

"It is a nice balance to swimming and academics."

Yet, swimming still has a major role in her life. When she has a rough day at school or needs time to unwind, Wagner can usually be found in the pool.

"It (swimming) has always been a good outlet for me," she said. "I can feel relaxed when I'm in the pool. I hope I can continue to swim competitively next season."

Wagner plans to pursue a career in elementary education and psychology and has narrowed her college choices to Albright, Arcadia, and Lycoming. Her aspiration is to become a third-grade teacher.

"I would like to continue to swim in college," she said. "If I do have time, maybe I can participate in some plays. But I know my schedule will likely be busy. I just have to look at everything this year.

"Until then, I plan to support my teammates as much as I can and spend as much time with family and friends."

Chances are they will likely enjoy spending time with her too.