Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Jeffrey and Sherry Barta
Siblings: Laila, Josalyn and Aiden Barta
Position or events: Basketball – guard and forward, track and field – shot put and discus
Career highlight: A career highlight for me was when I finally threw over 90 feet in discus.

At what age did you start playing your sport(s)?

I started playing basketball when I was in third grade and I started track and field my junior year.

Who introduced you to your sport(s)?
My parents introduced me to basketball and my friend Lily introduced me to track.

What is your favorite sport?
My favorite sport to play is basketball.

How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from your freshman year to your senior year?
My freshman year it was pretty easy for me to balance — the only struggle was when I had a game and needed to study for a test, so I just had to make time. Now that I am a senior, there has been a lot added to my list of things to do, and the work I have to complete requires a lot more thinking. On top of the academics and athletics, other things have also added more responsibilities for me including clubs and scholarships.

What is your favorite part about your sport(s)? What about it has caused you to stick with it for this long?
My favorite part of basketball is that there is always another team to prepare for and a new way to think about the game itself. I have stuck with it for so long because I enjoy playing with my team. Most of us have been playing together since grade school, so we know each other’s strengths and weaknesses and are able to pick each other up and cheer each other on when needed. My favorite part of track is the people. I started last year after I quit playing softball and the team environment was so supportive, even when I was unable to perform the best that I could.

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

My defense.

What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?
My most memorable experience so far was my junior year when we beat Valders in regionals after losing to them the year before.

How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?
It feels really good because even though after this year I will probably never play any of these sports again, each one has taught me something about myself and in some way has given me skills to take with me in my everyday life.

Do you have any pre-game rituals/routines/superstitions?
Before games and meets I just like talking to my friend Lily, she helps calm my nerves a little.

Do you take any extra steps to prepare for a big game, outside of regular training?
Extra stretching beforehand.

What has been your favorite experience with being a senior this year?

My favorite experience with being a senior is being able to listen to the others.

Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to give a shout out to?
Two coaches I’d like to acknowledge are Marlene Hall and Casey Christian, because they both helped me to be successful in a sport I had no experience in and they were both extremely encouraging to me.

Any hobbies outside of sports?
I like to spend time with my family and friends.

Favorite food?
Hamburgers.

Favorite movie/TV show?
“High Potential.”

Future plans? (college, major, career, etc.)

I am planning to attend the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point where I will major in accounting.