Penn-Trafford swimmer Austin Prokopec has had a successful season thus far.  He has qualified in every event for WPIALs and broke the county record for the 500 freestyle in January.

     This is not Prokopec’s first taste of winning.  He previously placed in the county and WPIAL tournaments and has qualified for states each season.

     “Austin is one of the best all-around swimmers in P-T history.  His work ethic is second to none on this team,” said head swim coach Dave Babik.

     Heading into the postseason, Prokopec is at the top of his game.  

     “I am getting times that I have never been able to hit before.  I’m really excited going into WPIALs,” said Prokopec.

     The WPIAL swimming championships will take place on February 27th and 28th at the University of Pittsburgh’s Trees Hall.

     It is important for any athlete to peak at the right time of the season.  Prokopec said he understands this and trains for it.

     “I want to get my strength up first then start resting down before it’s time to compete,” Prokopec said.

     In an area of the state where swimming is highly competitive, it is important to have a good mindset and the support of others.  Prokopec has both of those.

     “My teammates are great.  everyone is bouncing positive energy back and forth.  It really makes you work your absolute hardest every day,” said the swimmer.

     Prokopec competes mostly in the 200 freestyle, 500 freestyle and a “little bit of everything else.”  He is also part of a relay team that has qualified for WPIALs.  

     For Prokopec, this time of the year is the most exciting.  He has the experience and talent to achieve even more than he has already.

     For Babik, Prokopec’s value to the team is more than placing high at tournaments.  He is a role model.

     “He is a good example for the rest of the kids on the team, and probably for the rest of the kids in the school,” said Babik.