Prior Lake's Banasikowski: A passion for water

Prior Lake gradually has been climbing the ladder in the Class 2A girls' swimming state meet.

Sophomore Monica Banasikowski hopes to see that trend continue in 2011. The Lakers finished in 11th place a year ago after finishing in the 15th spot in 2009.

Banasikowski was a member of the Lakers' 200-yard medley relay team that took sixth place in the state meet last year.

Here is a closer look at Banasikowski:

The best movie I've seen in the past year? "Rudy" and "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II."

Three songs I never skip on my iPod are ... "All Night Long" by Pitbull ft. Alexandra Burke; "Mr. Saxobeat" by Alexandra Stan; "Take Over Control" by Afrojack ft. Eva Simons.

Three words or phrases my friends or teammates might use to describe me? Eccentric; outgoing; crazy.

How do you balance school and sports during the year? After school, I start my homework and I make sure to plan time for studying into my busy schedule because school is most important.

At my first varsity practice, I felt ... nervous, but also dedicated.

What did you work on in the offseason? I train with South Metro Storm swim club and work on breaking personal records.

Favorite meal before a meet? Pesto noodles with ciabatta bread.

What is your most memorable moment as a high school athlete? Winning the 200 medley relay at sections and beating the school record by three seconds.

I know I have an edge on an opponent when ... they start crying because they have to race me.

If you could change one thing about high school sports, what would it be? That there was more than one chance at getting a state time other than section finals.

When you have time off during vacation, what do you like to do? Spend time on Prior Lake with friends tubing, boating and jet skiing.

Who is your favorite pro or college sports team and why? The Green Bay Packers and Notre Dame Fighting Irish. I was born in Wisconsin. My sister is currently studying there (Notre Dame) and I love it! All- around amazing school.

In 10 years, I hope I'm ... graduated from college and in medical school.

What is the best sports advice you ever received? "Clear Eyes, Full Heart, Can't Lose."