2026 Girls Swimmer of the Year: Heidi Bollenbacher

Now that the winter sports season has come to a close, it’s time to reveal the All-Coastal Preps teams. Over the next few days, you will get to know more about the players of the year while also seeing who made first and second team in swimming & diving, wrestling, and basketball.

The Coastal Preps Girls Swimmer of the Year is junior Heidi Bollenbacher from Laney.

Heidi’s Accomplishments

Versatility is the word that comes to mind when describing Heidi Bollenbacher. 

The Laney standout doesn’t have a weakness in the pool, which is evident by the fact that she had the three fastest times in the area in the 200 individual medley. 

Bollenbacher was also the area’s most dominant freestyle sprinter. She qualified for the NCHSAA 8A State Championship in both events, finishing 10th in the 50 and 14th in the 100. 

At states, Bollenbacher was also a member of a pair of relay teams – 200 freestyle relay (13th) and 200 medley relay (18th). 

A few weeks earlier, she cruised in both individual events at the Carolina Coast Conference Championship. Bollenbacher completed the 200 individual medley in 2:13.97, which was nearly four seconds better than the runner-up. She also won the 100 freestyle by more than two seconds after touching the wall in 53.97. 

Although she didn’t swim the 100 breaststroke frequently, Bollenbacher still had the eighth-fastest time in the area. 

More about Heidi

Favorite Restaurant(s): Panera Bread

Favorite Movie(s): Maze Runner

Favorite Athlete(s): Katie Ledecky and Regan Smith

Favorite memory from this season: Walking out from the TAC ready room at states with my teammates for our 200 freestyle relay!

Favorite memory from your career: Making states my freshman year and swimming our 400 freestyle relay. 

Favorite thing about your school or team: How we stand on the side of the pool and cheer on whoever is swimming.

Do you have any superstitions or pre-game rituals? If so, what are they?: I do! I pray before each race in order to stay calm and focused.

What app on your phone do you use the most?: Apple Music

 Where is one place you’ve never been that you’d like to visit?: New Zealand

Do you prefer cold or hot weather?: I definitely prefer hot weather.

Would you rather watch a movie at home or in the theater?: I would rather watch a movie at home.

Do you have a sweet tooth? If so, what is your favorite treat?: I do have a sweet tooth, and my favorite treat is ice cream. 

What is your favorite milkshake flavor from Cook Out?: Mint Chocolate Chip.

What is one thing you want people to know about you besides being a great athlete?: My love for the Lord.