Abbotsford Student-Athlete Chloe Cihlar, Pancakes or Waffles? “Every Challenge is an Opportunity to Grow”
OnFocus: What are your favorite subjects/classes and why?
Cihlar: This year, my favorite class has been my teacher assistant period, where I have the opportunity to work with elementary physical education students which is what I plan to pursue after high school.
OnFocus: What are your hobbies?
Cihlar: Working out, hiking, reading, shopping, and trying new coffee shops.
OnFocus: Who is/was your first favorite teacher and why?
Cihlar: My favorite teacher was Mr. Knapmiller, who taught my social studies and leadership classes. He really focuses on us students throughout the learning process and makes everyone feel included.
OnFocus: What is the most unusual food you have eaten?
Cihlar: Grouper
OnFocus: What is your favorite music to listen to?
Cihlar: I love Noah Kahan, Drake, and SZA.
OnFocus: What are your plans after high school?
Cihlar: I plan to attend the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse to major in Physical and Adaptive Education.
OnFocus: If they made a movie about you, and your life, what would it be called? “Driven”
OnFocus: What sports do you play?
Cihlar: Swimming & Track
OnFocus: Which teammate would you not want to be stranded with on a deserted island?
Cihlar: Probably my swimming teammate, Madisyn Shraufnagel because I feel like she would want to vlog the whole thing instead of trying to survive.
OnFocus: What are some memorable moments you have had as an athlete?
Cihlar: Some memorable moments I have had as an athlete include qualifying for state track as a freshman and qualifying for state in swimming as a junior and senior. Competing at the highest level like that is truly indescribable. Also, looking up at the scoreboard after finishing my race and finding out we broke the school record at state swimming.
OnFocus: Who are your favorite athletes and/or teams?
Cihlar: Simone Manuel, Katie Ledecky, Sam Blaskowski, Kenny Bednarek, Lauren Jarrett
OnFocus: What do you enjoy most about competing in front of family, friends and fans?
Cihlar: I enjoy their constant support through the ups and downs. Having a familiar face to look to after a race, whether good or bad, is very comforting.
OnFocus: Do you have a funny or unusual moment(s) you have experienced in sports?
Cihlar: During sectionals in my freshman year of swimming, we were all lined up on the blocks for the 50 freestyle, ready to go, when the announcer said, “Lane 3 disqualified.” I was in lane 3, and I started freaking out, but it turned out it was the heat before mine. My coach was pretty upset and went and yelled at the officials after my race!
OnFocus: What’s the best thing about being a student-athlete at Abbotsford?
Cihlar: The best thing about being a student athlete at Abbotsford is getting to balance your love for sports with your education while building discipline, teamwork, and valuable core memories. You also create amazing friendships with teammates and experience the thrill of competition. The support this small-town community has shown for my athletics is immeasurable; you can tell everyone truly cares.
OnFocus: What words of wisdom can you give to other student-athletes?
Cihlar: To other student-athletes, I’d say: stay focused and manage your time wisely—balancing school and sports can be tough, but it’s worth it. Always push yourself to do your best, both in school and sports, and don’t forget to take care of your mental and physical health. Surround yourself with a good support system, and remember that every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Keep enjoying the journey and stay true to your passion for athletics!
OnFocus: Lastly, pancakes or waffles?
Cihlar: Definitely pancakes
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