Bartlesville’s Macie Stapleton

By Bryce McKinnis

Only three swimmers from Bartlesville High School’s 2024 6A State Championship team remain on this season’s roster.

One of them is senior Macie Stapleton.

“All of our hard work as a team paid off, and achieving that together was an unforgettable experience,” Stapleton said. “I’m incredibly grateful for that moment.”

Grateful, especially, considering she almost didn’t get to swim at state.

“Right before regionals, I suffered an unexpected injury that left me unable to straighten my right leg. I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to compete at state with the team I had worked so hard alongside,” Stapleton said. “Despite the setback, I stayed determined. I stretched, iced, heated and wrapped my knee daily. When regionals arrived, I gave everything I had.

“I ended up qualifying for state in one of my two events.”

That determination is a common trait on title-winning teams. It’s incumbent upon student-athletes like Stapleton, who was only a sophomore at the time, to carry the torch of selfless, even sacrificial work ethic into the team’s preparation to ensure that, even as many of the athletes responsible for that championship graduate, their winning spirit remains.

“I do consider myself a leader on this team,” Stapleton said. “I may not be the fastest swimmer, but I strive to be someone my teammates can rely on outside of the pool. As a senior, I make it a priority to set a positive example for the younger swimmers. The kind of leader I aspire to be is one who leads through action; someone who teaches, supports and demonstrates what dedication looks like. I believe true leadership means guiding others not just by instruction, but through example.”

Stapleton’s goal for her team this season is simple: to return to the state tournament and to win. If anybody knows the level of commitment necessary to bring the title back to Bartlesville, it’s her.

“For our team to win another state title, it will take all of us working together. Success doesn’t come from one person being the star. It comes from teamwork, positivity, encouragement and hard work,” Stapleton said. “Although we lost several seniors last year who were a big part of our team, we’ve learned to adapt and grow. The new team dynamic has been an adjustment, but it has also given many of us, including myself, the opportunity to develop stronger leadership skills. I’ve already noticed teammates stepping up and taking on new roles with confidence.”

She also wants to keep it fun. After all, its high school sports, and winning a championship is an amazing accomplishment, but it’s sweetened when you share the throne with your lifelong friends.

“Swimming has taught me discipline, perseverance and dedication, but it’s also reminded me of the importance of balance,” Stapleton said. “I want to make lasting memories with my teammates and finish my high school swimming career with gratitude and joy.”

Aside from swimming, Stapleton is a member of National Honors Society, Rotary Interact Club and student council. It’s a full schedule, but Stapleton is well equipped to keep it all together.

“My close friends on the swim team have been my greatest source of support,” Stapleton said. “They truly understand what I’m going through because they’ve faced the same challenges. They encourage me through every high and low, lift my spirits when things get tough and are always there when I need someone to talk to. My teammates are like family to me, and I trust them completely.”

After high school, Stapleton plans to major in elementary education.

“While I’m still deciding where I’ll go, I have faith that God has a plan for me, and I trust that He’ll guide me to where I’m meant to be.”