Athlete of the Month: Lucy Mackey

by Lindsay Hess and Kate Amsden

Published November 27th, 2021

Mackey in her record-breaking race, second lane from the top

NHS Sophomore Lucy Mackey made waves in the swimming pool last Friday at the Girls Swim and Dive Bay State Conference when she broke the NHS 100 backstroke record with an astounding time of 1:00.83.

This record was previously held by Claire Tzouros, who broke it in 2019 with a time of 1:00.94. Mackey quite literally blew that record out of the water!

Coach Rachel Waldstein describes Mackey as “an incredible athlete, teammate, and competitor,” which is clearly true since the 100 back is only one of four individual events that Mackey has qualified for at the state level. Waldstein attributes Mackey’s success to her “combination of hard work and attention to detail,” both of which have helped her drop time all season. She has consistently been a top point getter for the team, leaving all competitors in her wake.

At states, Mackey managed to break her own record, swimming 59.69 in 100 back, earning her 5th place. She also placed 5th in the 200 free, completing that event in an astounding 1:59.15.


Not only is Mackey a fearsome competitor in the water, but she’s also a great teammate on the pool deck. Her teammates have nothing but love for her…


“Lucy is an incredibly hard worker. Her positive attitude and humble nature is admirable. I loved watching her smash the 100 back record and fly through the 200 free -- her versatility is impressive! I am so proud of all that she has accomplished because she deserves the whole world and more!” - Rachel Talcoff


“Lucy Mackey is an invaluable team member to the high school team. She puts the team first and does whatever is asked of her, everything from doing the 500 free to the 100 back, and she succeeds at everything she tries. Not only does Lucy work hard at practices but she makes practice enjoyable. Lucy never fails to swim amazingly while simultaneously putting a smile on my face!” - Chloe Wulkitch

Congratulations Lucy! We can’t wait to see what you accomplish next year!