Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Stephanie Barnica
Siblings: Rebecca Barnica, Jessica Barnica, Jenna Barnica, Lucas Littleberry, Louis Littleberry, Linus Littleberry
Position or events: Hurdles, high jump, 200 meter dash, power forward
Instagram: @ambarnica
Snapchat: Lolove1113!
Career Highlight: Random people taking photos on my phone during track season! The moments with the team before we ran a race in cross country! There was always a funny chant that we said. The moments at Culvers during track.

At what age did you start playing your main sport?
I started running in grade school at a young age. Track I started in highschool at 16 years old!

Who introduced you to the sport?
My older sister Jessica introduced me to track. My mom introduced me to running.

Has this always been your favorite sport?
No, I used to love cross country because of seeing different things while running!

What aspects of your sport do you value the most?
Running on the track can be fun, especially with the team! It’s just about having fun, and sometimes winning too!

In your opinion, what is the best part about being on a team?

Getting along with everyone and just having fun! Even if we lose or win!

How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from your freshman year to your senior year?
I didn’t start participating in sports until my sophomore year of high school because I wanted to focus on my studies. Later, I took on everything and tried to balance all my activities. Now, it’s easier to manage because I don’t have to worry about school as much as I did when I was a freshman or sophomore.

What is the most challenging aspect of your sport that most people don’t realize?
Just getting out there and doing it! Staying consistent and practicing every day can be really challenging!

How do you deal with the pressure of a big game?
Getting into the mindset of doing what needs to be done. I motivate myself mentally, telling myself, “You’ve got this! Keep going, just go for it!”

If you could instantly master any other sport, which would you choose and why?
I would choose swimming because it would be really fun and enjoyable!

Outside of sports, how do you enjoy spending your free time?

I love spending time with my family, as well as doing things I enjoy, like dancing, singing and just having fun!

What is the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
I went hiking, and I fell into the water and almost fell off the side of a cliff once!

What is one thing you’ve always wanted to try, but have never gotten the chance to yet?
Going to a different country and exploring different places in America.

What is one song in your playlist that gets you pumped up before a game?
“Good Feeling,” by Flo Rida. It’s a good song to listen to.

Favorite game day beverage?
I love drinking water before a game day! It’s tasty and always keeps me hydrated.
What is something you’re excited to experience after high school (sports or in general)?

Future Plans? (college, major, career, etc.)
I’m most excited about living on my own and doing what I love the most! I plan on working at a mental hospital after I graduate and then maybe going to UW-Oshkosh.