Trending
Name: Andrew Shanafelt
School: Hollidaysburg Area
Age: 17
Grade: Senior
Sport: Swimming
Athlete of the week achievement: Shanafelt won the Laurel Highlands Athletic Conference championship in the 200-yard freestyle in 1:55.1 and the 500 freestyle in 5:21.36 and also was part of the winning team in a special mixed bonus relay, the 400 relay X 100 IM in 4:14.35. Earlier in the week, he won the 200 freestyle, 100 butterfly and 200 relay for Hollidaysburg in a meet against Clearfield.
Season update: Shanafelt had his best times this season in both the 200- and 500-yard freestyle events at the LHAC meet.
Coach Baron Leonard's quote: "Shanny is one of the truest examples of what it means to be an athlete. Any coach or teammate ought to count themself lucky to be one of his. His devotion to his team, his position as captain, and his teammates is only matched by the intensity he brings to his races. Even in the face of adversity this season, he has posted a lifetime best in the 200 free with a 1:55.1 and season best in the 500 free 5:21.36; both swims earning him gold at the LHAC championship meet."
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Haslam
Favorite subject: Environmental Science
Favorite movie: "Nacho Libre"
Favorite food: Zuppa Toscana
Favorite song: "One Last Breath" by Creed
Outside interests: FBLA, running, skiing and Fortnite
Favorite professional team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Favorite college team: Penn State
Pro athlete most admired: David Montgomery
Best athlete I ever competed against: Sam Huggins
Most influential person on my athletic career: Cassie Kachur
Proudest athletic achievement: Winning both of my individual events at the 2025 LHAC meet.
How I got my start in swimming: "I needed to join a sport so I wouldn't have to ride the bus home."
Future goal: Get under five minutes in the 500 freestyle