ThunderRidge senior diver Gretchen Wensuc has done her best not to feel like a football placekicker.

Kickers often practice by themselves and participate with the rest of the team during special team drills. Divers practice isolated from swimmers and many times have their own meets and competitions.

“No, I don't feel like a placekicker because I feel like I want to be a part of a swimming and diving team,” said Wensuc. “I will go to talk with the swimmers and try to understand things I don't understand at all.”

Divers don't always understand swimmers and swimmers many times have no idea what is going on in diving competition, but Wensuc tries to unite the split between swimmers and divers.

“I definitely don't like the separation,” she said. “I've always felt included, especially at ThunderRidge. This is very much a team. I have more swimming friends than I have diving friends.”

Wensuc ranks among the state's four best 5A divers this season, according the points recorded and she has her sights set on the 5A state meet, which will be held Feb. 7-9.

“First at state is my goal,” said Wensuc. “But I just want to dive the best that I can, and if I do that, I definitely know I can go places.”

Key statistics:

According to Prepswimco.com, Wensuc has the fourth highest score posted this season: 480.65. She was fifth at last season's state meet.

The coach's take:

“Gretchen is probably the most fearless diver I've ever had. She will literally try anything... She is amazing and very talented. I will miss her terribly when she leaves."

— ThunderRidge diving coach Debbie Kortbawi

Who is your favorite athlete and why?

David Boudia. I just feel like he's been through a lot with injuries and stuff. He always comes back and he's still diving now, being married with two kids. He does amazing things.

What or who motivates you most to excel in sports?

My coaches and besides that my teammates and family.

What would be a perfect performance in diving?

Sevens and above on each dive and a score of 500.

What is your favorite class in school and why?

Anatomy. I like the human body and some of the sensitive spots.

What are your plans after high school?

I have a scholarship to dive at Auburn, and I want to major in kinesiology and exercise science.

What is the hardest dive for you?

A 105 C (front, 2½ half tuck). It is difficult to do and takes more muscle and stuff to really get the board down.