News Summary

Reece Hepko, a 16-year-old swimmer from Seymour High School, achieved a remarkable feat at the AAU Olympic Games in Houston, Texas, winning medals in every event he participated in. Securing eight medals overall, his dedication and performance reflect a promising future as he aims for collegiate swimming qualifications. Reece embodies the spirit of perseverance and talent as he balances his athletic pursuits in swimming, basketball, and baseball, showcasing his skills on multiple fronts.

Exciting Victory for Seymour’s Reece Hepko at AAU Olympics!

In the charming city of Seymour, a remarkable young athlete is making waves in the swimming community! Meet Reece Hepko, a 16-year-old junior from Seymour High School, who recently represented his team at the AAU Olympic Games held in Houston, Texas. This was no ordinary event; it was a spectacular showdown featuring an astonishing 17,000 athletes competing throughout the week!

Medal Mania: Eight Prizes for a Talented Swimmer

Reece participated in a total of five individual swimming events along with three thrilling relays, and here’s the kicker—he managed to secure a medal in **every single event**, finishing in the top eight that earned him this incredible honor. That’s right! Not many can say they walked away with eight shiny medals under their belt. It’s an achievement that not only highlights his swimming prowess but also his determination to shine under pressure.

A Glimpse into the Competition

Amid the excitement, Reece found the atmosphere a bit overwhelming, which is totally understandable given the scope of the event. However, he is no stranger to challenges; he actually thrives when under pressure! It’s clear that this young swimmer is not just participating, but he’s competing with a heart full of passion and ambition.

Hard Work and Dedication: The Road to Nationals

Reece swims with the Mid-Mo United club team, which encompasses talented swimmers from south-central and southwest Missouri. To qualify for nationals, he had to showcase his skills during an AAU qualifier held in June in Poplar Bluff. His performance was stellar, placing 3rd in the 200-meter medley relay, 4th in both the 200-meter and 400-meter freestyle relays, and 5th in the 50-meter freestyle. But that’s not all! He also showcased his versatility by finishing in the top ten for several other races, including the 100-meter freestyle and butterfly events. His best moment? A stunning finish of 5th place nationally in the 50-meter freestyle with a time of 25.62 seconds!

Tall and Talented: A Versatile Athlete

Standing at an impressive 6’4” and weighing 200 pounds, Reece does not just limit himself to swimming. He is also a star player in basketball and baseball at Seymour High School. Last season, he was a key player on the boys’ basketball team, helping to achieve a solid record of 20 wins. On the baseball field, he dons the cap of the starting first baseman, where he continues contributing to the success of his team.

Aiming for the Future: College Dreams on the Horizon

Reece has ambitions of swimming at the collegiate level, hoping to secure scholarships that can pave the way for his future. He already made history by being the first boys’ swimmer from Seymour High School to qualify for state, where he finished 22nd in the 50-yard freestyle. This year, he’s aiming even higher, with hopes of securing a top-eight finish to earn All-State honors.

Swim Training and Family Legacy

Reece’s journey in competitive swimming began at just four years old, and he has always been dedicated to the sport. His family has deep roots in the local swimming scene, having been actively involved with the Seymour YMCA and the Sharks program, where he had the privilege of being coached by his father. The Sharks program runs year-round, and families can enroll for about $100 for the entire season, which is a great deal for anyone looking to train at such a level.

The Road Ahead: Balancing Sports and Training

As summer winds down, Reece has been diligently training with both the Sharks and Mid-Mo United. After the high school swimming season wraps up, it’s all about transitioning into basketball and then baseball, but he’ll continue to swim during his off-season. His unwavering commitment is nothing short of admirable!

Seymour can be proud to have a young athlete like Reece Hepko represent them on such a grand stage. With his sights set high, there’s no doubt that more incredible achievements are on the horizon for this talented swimmer!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Additional Resources