Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight: Rowan McManus

De Pere High School, lacrosse

Parents’ names: Stephanie and Michael

Siblings: Maya

Instagram: @rowanmcmanus_

TikTok: @rowanmcmanus

Position: Attack and Midfielder

Career highlight: My goal against Notre Dame last year at the end of one of our playoff games

At what age did you start playing your main sport?

14

Who introduced you to the sport?

I heard about it freshman year through a few friends, and it seemed like something really fun to try out.

Has this always been your favorite sport?

Not always, I was a competitive dancer for 10+ years before playing lacrosse. I am also a skier, and I used to play volleyball and basketball.

How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from your freshman year to your senior year?

It was definitely more difficult as time went on. My Freshman and Sophomore year were easier because I didn’t have a heavy workload, but my Junior and Senior year were both definitely more work to stay on top of everything.

What is your favorite part about this sport? What about it has caused you to stick with it for this long?

I love lacrosse because there are so many moving parts to the game. It’s tricky to get at first but once you see where everything fits, it’s like solving a puzzle. There’s always something different to try which is why I think I’ve stuck with it.

Is there a professional athlete you look up to? If so, who?

Izzy Scane from Northwestern. She had a huge ACL tear in 2022 I think it was, but now she has come back to be currently one of the best college players.

What would you say is your biggest asset on the field?

I’m short and I’m fast.

What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?

Last year’s playoff game against Notre Dame. The game was so full of energy, and it was so fun to both watch and play in!

How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?

As someone who has only played this sport for four years, looking back and thinking about my freshman self is honestly crazy. The growth I’ve seen both as a player and a person is huge. I’ve gained so much confidence, skill, experience, and knowledge both on and off the field.

Do you have any pre-match rituals/routines/superstitions?

I always listen to my hype playlist on the bus and have a little snack. It’s basic but it totally works.

Do you take any extra steps to prepare for a big match/game/meet, outside of regular practices?

I stretch extra before games just to be safe, and I always play catch with one of my teammates before we do warmups just to get my head in the game.

Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to give a shout out to?

Just to my friends on the team, they have always supported me through the good and the bad. I’d like to thank both my club and my school coaches for helping me become the best player I can be too!

Any hobbies outside of sports?

I’m a HUGE music person. I spend my time outside of lacrosse in Jam Session (show choir), concert choir, piano lessons, and just listening to all the music I can. I also love to hike, ski, mountain bike, watch comedy movies/shows, and read.

Favorite song?

“Everybody Wants To Rule The World” by Tears For Fears

Sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade or water?

Usually just water and sometimes either pineapple or lemon lime Liquid IV.

Future Plans?

I’m currently planning on going to the University of Utah for Architecture and minoring in Music. I’m thinking of trying out for the club lacrosse team there too.