Senior Reed Malone has been on the New Trier Varsity Swim Team since he was a freshman. Practicing two times a day, twelve times in a week, and every day except Sunday, it’s no wonder why Reed is viewed by his teammates and peers as a hardworking, determined athlete.
Starting his swimming career at age nine, Malone developed a passion for swimming and continues to improve his talent with age. When he heads to the University of Southern California in the fall, Malone is looking forward to advancing his career in swimming. Moreover, he is looking forward to the challenges and opportunity that will come with it.
Malone began swimming at the age of nine for Old Willow Club in Glenview. Joining the team for social reasons, Reed quickly began having success and wanted to further his achievements in the sport. By the time he was a junior, he had won multiple state championships and made the Junior National Team for USA Men’s Swimming and competed in the 2011 Junior World Championships. There, he came in sixth, and set a state record.
“It’s important to trust your training and have confidence,” said Malone. “In the end, it’s all about the team and getting the end result. Knowing the work paid off, that’s what’s most enjoyable.”
For his last year at New Trier, Reed was named team captain. Although swimming stresses individual success, Malone is all about the team’s progress and triumphs.
“I feel I lead by example, giving pep talks, speaking up when needed, doing cheers, just trying to be a positive captain and leader,” said Malone. “Before meets, I tell my teammates to just go out and race, that wins aren’t for the individual, they are for the team.”
Malone’s coach, Mark Onstott, feels the swimmer doesn’t just demonstrate his talent in the pool. Coaching Reed all through his high school career, he sees Malone as a gifted, determined athlete and person.
“He’s got tremendous character, is extremely hard working, has great technique, is very strong. He’s the whole package,” said Onstott.
“Reed is always doing the right thing and leads by example. He’s extremely well respected by all the guys and his opponents.”
But Mark Onstott isn’t the only admirer of Reed’s performance and attitude. His teammates, Daniel Romo and Denver Freeman, both feel that Reed is the ideal swimmer, captain, and friend.
“Everyone knew Reed was going to be a captain from day one; there are specific qualities and skills that certain kids possess and you can tell that by their senior year, they will be leading the team,” said Romo.
“I always viewed Reed as a natural leader; [he is the] perfect guy for being a great captain.”
Denver Freeman, a longtime friend and teammate, is a co-captain with Malone and feels that he is the kind of person you want on your team.
“He is extremely positive and brings a good atmosphere to practice each day,” said Freeman.
“He is very compassionate about everything and everyone, a goofy kid who will make you laugh when you are down. I have yet to meet someone who has said, ‘wow, I just can’t stand that Malone kid.”
With support and devotion from teammates and coaches, it’s no wonder why he is on a path to achieve greatness. Heading to USC next year for college, Reed is eager for the new experiences and people he will meet.
“I’m excited for a nice change of pace, and of course the warm weather,” said Malone.
“I’m looking forward to new experiences and meeting new coaches and teammates. I’m very grateful for the opportunity.”
And after college? We may see Reed Malone headed for the 2016 Olympics.
But for the next four years, Reed is going to enjoy college and continue to advance in his swimming career.