Karen Stepp (Smith) began a lifelong bond with water when she joined the Ulysses Swim Team in high school. As a 1982 UHS graduate, Stepp recalled swimming to be a required exercise for all high school sports.
“We had football, basketball, and baseball players—they all swam,” said Stepp.
Over the span of many generations, the athletic club became known as the Grant County Recreation Commission Sharks Swim Team.
After the conclusion of her high school swimming career, Stepp was reunited with the sport when her daughter, Aleisha, joined the Sharks in 1995.
“When my girls swam, there was more than 100 kids on the team, and we just don’t have those numbers now,” said Stepp. “It would be really nice to see a high school swim team put in, so the community becomes more involved and supportive.”
In 1996, Stepp was encouraged by the late Janet Pucket to become an official for the Western Kansas Swim Club (WKSC). WKSC requires hefty testing for officials in charge of strokes, turns, starting, and refereeing.
“One of my favorite strokes to watch would be the backstroke and the butterfly because they are so graceful,” shared Stepp.
Stepp continued working as an official under Janet Pucket until temporarily retiring in 2011.
Five years later, Stepp found herself leaving retirement in support of Aleisha, who had taken on the role of the Shark’s Head Coach. Not only does Stepp show up for her daughter, but she also has grandchildren who have developed a passion for swimming.
Stepp’s granddaughter Emaleigh Moore has been working hard year-round to break records, including her district record for the 100 Free.
As Stepp reflected on her last 30 years in the swim world, she mentioned the power of creating relationships.
“Swimming builds a lot of long-lasting bonds and friendships,” said Stepp. “It’s almost like we don’t just make friends, we make new family members with how close and attached we become.”
Out of all meet locations, Stepp repeatedly commended Spearman, Texas, for their kindness and “great music”.
“I’ve met a lot of interesting people over the years,” said Stepp. “I made lifelong friends.”
In 2016, Stepp was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, creating difficulty for her as an official. Since navigating the condition, Stepp decided it was time to hang up her whistle.
Looking into the future, Stepp plans to bask in her role as a supportive mom and grandmother.
“I’m not completely walking away, but I think it’s time for someone else to step up,” said Stepp.
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