Athlete of the Week: Kayla McKinney, West Orange swim

After placing third in states last year in the 400-yard freestyle with a time of 53.22, West Orange swimmer Kayla McKinney received the honor of All-American status — an honor given to elite athletes and a strong recognition of her strength in the sport. 

This year, she is working hard to bring another medal home and she serves the team as a leader both in and out of the pool. 

This season, McKinney, a senior, is leading the Warriors as its team captain. She hopes  to continue her swimming journey in college and is being recruited by multiple colleges. She has been swimming for 10 years, and her favorite event is the 200-yard butterfly because it allows her to push herself and showcase her resilience. 

Aside from high school swimming, McKinney also swims at Southwest Stars Swim Club in Winter Garden. 

In the 2024-25 season, she was ranked 10th in the swim club and third on West Orange’s team. Her power index is rated 32.61, and she is ranked 62nd in the country. She’s steadily progressed throughout her career and hopes to make it back to states again this season. 

In 2025, McKinney has recorded nine personal-best times. Her top events in long-course meters are 50 free, 100 free, 100 breast, 50 fly, 100 fly and 100 and 200 individual medley. She’s recorded a few bests in short course yards too, the 100 back, 50 and 100 fly. 

When she isn’t in the water, Kayla loves to spend her free time at the beach and baking sweet treats. She’s also an avid Starbucks fan. 

How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?  

I’m excited and honored to be selected.

What do you enjoy the most about swimming? 

Being close with my teammates. They have become some of my best friends. 

What is the biggest lesson you have learned from swimming? 

Never give up. The hard work will pay off.

Who is your favorite athlete?  

Gretchen Walsh, because she’s amazing at butterfly.

What is your favorite swimming memory? 

My favorite memory is having fun with my teammates at practices during hurricanes. 

What is your go-to pre-swim meal? 

Homemade chicken alfredo.

What is your go-to pre-swim hype song?  

“Humble” by Kendrick Lamar.

What is your favorite non-sports hobby? 

My favorite non-sports hobby is paddleboarding on our local lakes. 

What is your favorite subject in school? 

My favorite subjects are marine science and animal science. 

What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?

I would bring a blanket, my dog and Wi-Fi. 

What is your favorite movie? 

“Top Gun: Maverick” for the action. The jets are cool!

If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be? 

Jane Goodall. I love the connections she made with animals and how she cared for the environment. 

If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go? 

The ’80s for the music.

Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self? 

Don’t be afraid to try new things.

If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be? 

Do I live in a beach house? 

Who is your favorite superhero? 

My favorite superhero is Wonder Woman, because she’s strong and powerful. 

Who is your favorite supervillain?  

My favorite supervillain is Gaston, because he’s funny, and he doesn’t realize it. 

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?  

Teleportation, so I can get places faster.

Does pineapple belong on pizza?  

Yes!