Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Michelle and Rich Simons
Siblings: Lincoln Simons
Position or events: Defense and Outfield
Instagram: @olympia.simons

At what age did you start playing your main sport?
I started playing hockey when I was four years old.

How were you introduced to the sport?
When my brother started playing hockey, my parents put me in figure skating to fill my time at the rink. However, one day I refused to get on the ice unless I had gear on like my brother. I have played hockey ever since.

Has this always been your favorite sport?

Yes.

What has the biggest difficulty been when balancing academics, sports, and personal life in highschool?
The biggest difficulty is choosing what I have to sacrifice because I do not have time for everything. This may mean missing parts of school and not attending friend gatherings because I have a game or practice. It is always a hard choice, but I love the sport and my teammates, so it is worth it in the end.

How do you feel you have grown throughout your high school years?
As I progressed through my high school years, I feel that my confidence has grown. I am less afraid to make mistakes and I put less pressure on myself to be perfect. This has made the sport more enjoyable and it has improved my performance on the ice.

What do you like to do outside of your sport or athletic season?
Outside of hockey, I hang out with my friends and walk my dog. I like to go hiking and to the beach. Every year, I always look forward to family vacations as well.

What is your favorite part about this sport?
My favorite part about this sport is the number of people I have met. I grew up with most of my teammates, so we are like a family. Also, repeatedly having the same competitors, I get to know many girls from all around the state that have the same interest as me.

What is your biggest motivator?

My biggest motivator is my parents. Growing up, I participated in many different activities and my parents always supported me. They come to all of my games and cheer me on, even if I make a mistake. They have always wanted the best for me and pushed me to be the best person and athlete possible.

Do you have a favorite memory from high school athletics?
My favorite memory is this year’s whole State Tournament weekend. This includes not only the State Championship game, but also the days leading up to it. We got to go to team dinners and spend time in the hotel all together one last time. I felt like we were a true family and it was the best feeling being able to have us all accomplish our one big goal, to win State. This State weekend was especially impactful because it was the last time I would skate with the girls I grew up with.

How do you prepare for game days?
On game days, I like to drink an energy drink and blare my music in the car on the way.

Favorite pump up song before game?
One of my favorite songs before games is “Yeah!” by Usher because it helps me relax my mind and have fun, especially when it is played in the locker room.

Do you have a favorite beverage to drink during a game?

(Gatorade, Powerade, Water)

Before my games, I drink an energy drink like an Alani or Bubblr. Then, during games, I like to drink water and between periods I drink Gatorade.

Is there a professional athlete or motivator you look up to? If so, why?
I have always looked up to my brother, especially in my younger years. As mentioned previously, I never would have known about this sport if it wasn’t for him. Seeing him play helped me grow my knowledge about the sport and I realized the strength of the hockey community. I also wear his old jersey number, 16, that he wore before he switched to goalie.

Has anyone, coach or teammate, been a big influence in your athletic career?
One coach who has had the biggest impact on my career is Joe Gerarden. He was my coach for around nine years and is the reason I am the player I am today. In my youth, he made the sport very fun and stress-free. For example, after we won tournaments he would let us glitter or shave his beard. Thanks to him, my love for the sport never faltered and he continuously enhanced my skills.

As you graduate, how do you want to be remembered by your coaches, teammates and peers?

After I graduate, I want to be remembered as a caring, knowledgeable and approachable person.

Future Plans? (college, major, career, etc.)
I plan on attending a four-year out-of-state college and majoring in accounting. I will also be playing club hockey in college.