Hi-Line Athlete Profile: Kobi Burchard, HHS Swimming

For high school seniors, and athletes alike, there is very little that's normal right now. That's because COVID-19 continues to disrupt just about anything and everything, including school and sports.

And yet, when Havre High senior Kobi Burchard is in a swimming pool, it's about as normal as normal can get. That's because Burchard is a swimmer. It's what she does, it's what she loves to do and, even during these trying times, not only is Burchard right at home in the pool, she's really good at swimming, too.

Burchard is in her fourth and final season of Blue Pony swimming, which kicked off last Saturday with her finishing second in the 50-meter freestyle and the 100 butterfly. Over the years, Burchard has shined in just about every swimming discipline, and she was doing it long before she became a Blue Pony.

"My parents made sure that my siblings and I took swim lessons since day one," Burchard said. "So, when I was 7 my brother joined the Lions Swim Team and after watching him at practice for a few days I thought that I wanted to join the team. I was one of the youngest swimmers on the team and always looked up to the older kids. So now that I am in high school I want to be a good role model like they were to me."

She's certainly doing that. Not only is Burchard one of the best Blue Pony swimmers, she's also a leader, guiding the younger generation, including her sister, as Havre navigates a strange season, one that will be filled with challenges and differences. And yet, as tough as things will be at times this season, Burchard is keeping everything in perspective. She's tough and competitive but, especially during these times, she also wisely sees the bigger picture.

"My biggest goals for this year is to have fun, improve my times and to have my cap on and ready on deck for coach Kilgore," she said.

Burchard will get a chance to do that again this weekend when the Blue Ponies host Polson and East Helena in the Havre Community Pool. Before the meet, the Havre Daily News caught up with Burchard for five questions.

HDN: What is your favorite thing about competitive swimming?

Burchard: "I have been swimming competitively for 10 years. Even though everyone swims their own events we are all still scored as a team. Everyone cheers on their teammates and even their competitors. The atmosphere is amazing."

HDN: What is the hardest thing about swimming?

Burchard: "The hardest thing is knowing your event for two days prior to competing and stressing about how it's going to go. Once you're on the block, all the stress goes away and the adrenaline kicks in."

HDN: What is your best event?

Burchard: "My best event would have to be the 100 fly. It was something I never enjoyed or tried when I was in Lions swimming, but my freshman year coach Kilgore encouraged me to try it and has helped me to perfect it."

HDN: What is your favorite thing to do on dry land?

Burchard: "In my free time I like to be by the water, fishing and going to the lake with friends and family. I also enjoy working, I like to stay busy."

HDN: What is your favorite thing about being a part of Blue Pony swimming?

Burchard: "My favorite thing has to be watching newbies join the team and become amazing swimmers. We are a team, we don't leave anyone out. This year I am very excited to have my little sister Kyla swimming with me on the team, attempting to keep up with me."