Lauren Brashear swims in the 200-yard freestyle during a meet. CONTRIBUTED

Athlete of the Week

MADISON – Lauren Brashear likes the sport of swimming because of its people.

A James Clemens High School senior, Lauren is team captain of swim and dive teams. Her standout events are 50-yard and 100-yard freestyle.

Frequent moves by her military family caused stressed for Lauren. “But being involved with swimming always gave me a fantastic community of people,” Lauren said.

Previously, she swam with Madison Swim Association. During summer, she swims for Madison Dolphins and Madison Swimming Association long-course team.

Lauren’s swimming coaches are “some of the best people I’ve ever worked with. Their level of care and commitment is truly a gift.”

“Lauren embodies true leadership and sets a great example for her team,” swim parent Dr. Terri Johnson said. “Lauren is just as kind to Bob Jones girls as her own team.”

Jets/Patriots swimmers spend 10-plus hours together weekly, so “we’re a giant family, even if we’re competing against one another,” Lauren said.

Lauren serves as National Honor Society secretary and Student 2 Student president and participates in Beta Club, National English Honor Society and Health Occupational Students of America.

With James Clemens Wind Ensemble, Lauren plays baritone saxophone. She is a JROTC cadet first lieutenant.

Her parents are Michele Brashear, a stay-at-home mom, and James Brashear, a retired Army colonel. Lauren’s brother Ryan, a James Clemens freshman, also performs with Wind Ensemble.

Q & A

Q: What Madison restaurants do you like?

A: Sakura, Panera Bread and Chick-fil-A.

Q: What’s your favorite food?

A: Alaskan crab

Q: What are your favorite sports teams?

A: “I prefer Auburn over Alabama.”

Q: What’s your favorite sports memory?

A: “Any time my team has come together and worked hard to accomplish a goal.”

Q: What do you like to do in your free time?

A: Reading and “sometimes even a Netflix-binge.”

Q: What are your plans after high school?

A: Considering the University of Alabama at Birmingham for medical school. She will major in biomedical science with pre-dental focus. She plans to be a dentist.