Laura Fehrman already has proved her mettle as a short-distance swimmer. These days it is longer distances that challenge the St. Charles North junior.
“I’m going to work on the 200 freestyle a lot,” she said during early-morning weight training this week. “But I’m not yet clear what I’m going to do [for the state meet]. I just want to get out there and try and place really well.”
Fehrman is already among the state’s best in 50- and 100-yard freestyle events. She has had top-12 finishes in both for two years, including fourth in the 100 freestyle in 52.63 seconds at last year’s state meet. She also swam on two top-10 relays.
“Her work ethic was fantastic this summer,” said North Stars coach Rob Rooney, who also coaches Fehrman in the off-season. “She was doing doubles all summer, she worked hard in the weight room and her distances have improved.”
Rooney looks for Fehrman’s efforts to pay dividends.
“I expect her to step up,” he said. “I don’t think she realizes how good she can get. She doesn’t have the size that some kids have, but she has a great feel for the water.”
A competitive club swimmer since 11, Fehrman said club swimming has helped her improve skills and gain confidence over the years. During the past off-season, she used club swimming to build more endurance.
Fehrman and the North Stars open the season Saturday with a home dual meet with Hinsdale Central.
