Junior Clara Theriault uses discipline to balance swimming and academics

by Lorelei Bingham

With each stroke, junior Clara Theriault makes her way across the pool.

Students might see Theriault in the hallway and assume she’s just like any other student. However, that’s not quite the full picture.

“Being a student-athlete is more challenging mentally than physically. You have to balance everything. You have to have time to swim and time to work. If you can’t find the time, you have to make it,” said Theriault

Despite the challenges of being a student-athlete, Theriault continues to stay motivated.

“Just knowing how hard the practice is on paper, I know I’m going to get something out of it. We can always laugh about it later,” she shared. “The girls on the swim team also help me stay motivated. The environment the team has is just so positive.”

Beyond her dedication to swimming, Theriault is also known for her personality.

Theriault’s former teammate and 2026 graduate Adelaide Bingham describes her as “encouraging, cheerful, inclusive, and always looking out for others.” 

Her kindness also has a positive impact on those around her.

“Clara makes me feel like I don’t have to worry about anything. She also taught me to look out for others,” stated freshman Bristol Cain.

Outside of the pool, Theriault faces another important responsibility being a student ambassador.

“I’m a student ambassador because I believe every school should have representation. Having students who are considered some of the best at Jeff shows that we aren’t just a fight school. Yes, there are fights, but having a group of leaders to really show what JHS stands for is important.”

Theriault uses her leadership skills in and out of school. She positively impacts all of her teammates’ lives.

Bingham stated, “Clara has taught me to look out for others and show empathy. She also taught me to be selfless and help others when they are in need. When you are kind to Clara, she never fails to pass it on to another person. She’s like a bubble of joy.”

Theriault’s dedication to her team reflects the life lessons she has learned through swimming, which extend far beyond the pool.

“Swimming has taught me lots of discipline,” said Theriault. “No matter how hard something looks, you can always beat the challenge. It’s just a mental game and stepping out of your comfort zone.”

Through swimming, leadership, and her relationship with others, Theriault is someone who strives to make a positive difference both in and out of the pool.

Persistence and personality helps freshman swimmer Lily Eaves adjust to high school

by Evangeline Hertweck

As the buzzer goes off, freshman Lily Eaves dives into the pool confidently.

“I love swimming because of how weightless I feel in the water,” Eaves said.

Eaves is ready to jump from the diving board. She looks persistent. She looks excited. She looks ready. She is used to this; however, there are new swimmers at the pool.

“Start slow and practice a lot. You need practice to perfect your moves,” she advised.

Eaves swims through the water effortlessly, making it look easy to beginners. Everyone cheers, but the swimmer’s mother’s voice cuts through the crowd.

“My mom is my biggest supporter because I can talk to her about anything, and she cheers me on the most,” Eaves stated.

Even though Eaves isn’t new to swimming, she is definitely new to JHS. Freshmen must get used to a drastically new schedule, making new friends, and showing up to class on time. For Eaves, this is a change.

“There is definitely a difference in maturity, as people connect in unique ways at different life stages. Maturity influences how we communicate and support one another, affecting the quality of our relationships,” she said.

As the school days go by, Eaves starts to see that JHS isn’t all that different from Parkview Middle School. The familiar dynamics of friendships and social groups make her feel more at ease as she adjusts to this new environment.

“High school made me realize that no one really cares what you do. Be your own person; a good one,” she said.

Eaves enjoys high school, especially social studies. The subject’s focus on history and cultures makes learning exciting and fun.

“I love social studies because if you have a good teacher, they make learning more interesting and more fun.”

Freshman Carlee Solomon is one of Eaves’ closest and best friends. 

“Lily has always been an amazing friend to me; we’ve been close since we met in first grade,” Solomon said, looking back on their long friendship.

Even on her tough days, Eaves has a special way of making everyone smile. Her cheerful laugh and friendly personality brighten the mood in any room, making people feel welcome.

“Lily is a really good person and a sweet friend. She knows how to make me happy, especially when I’m feeling sad,” Solomon said.

The two friends have shared many laughs and great times together, both at school and outside of it.

“I remember one night I went to her house. We baked a big batch of cookies, and afterward, we danced and sang our favorite songs in her kitchen. It was such a fun night, and it’s a memory I’ll always hold dear,” Solomon recalled.

Eaves has plenty of friends, in and outside of school. She participates in several different activities like Girl Scouts, swimming, and just being outside in general, helping her connect with others who share the same interests, including with freshman Lorelei Bingham.

“I know Lily from school and swim. I don’t have any classes with her, but I would still consider her a good friend,” said Bingham.

Reflecting on Eaves’ influence, Bingham said she has the ability to uplift everyone around her. It’s like she carries a little sunshine with her wherever she goes.

“Lily brings positivity. She will always make you feel better if you’re sad. She will always be your little cheerleader.”