Q&A with Brodey Massad and Zackary Bates

Fort Gibson High School

Seniors Brodey Massad and Zackary Bates have recently completed highly successful swimming careers for the Fort Gibson Tigers, so VYPE talked with the two who were recently named All-State swimmers and their coach Leslie White.

VYPE: Coach, tell us about these two guys that have been such a big part of your teams for four years.

COACH WHITE: I’ve had them both since they were freshmen and they really pushed themselves this year to set good examples for our younger swimmers. We won regionals but had some disqualifications in our relay teams and finished ninth at state which was okay but not what we had hoped for.

VYPE: When did swimming become something more than just a fun activity for you guys?

ZACK: “I was kind of forced into swimming in seventh grade because my little sister was doing it but I quickly fell in love with it and knew it was something I could put my heart into.”

BRODEY: “I started swimming when I was nine and found I liked it because I didn’t get bored doing it and really enjoyed it.”

VYPE: Do you have someone that was a role model for you growing up?

ZACK: “Once I got to high school it was completely different than what I had seen in middle school and Dalton Ross was one of the swimmers on the team that really coached me in the backstroke and pushed me to be my best.”

BRODEY: Dalton was also a role model for me. He always pushed me in practice and helped me get fast and I wouldn’t be the swimmer I’ve become without his help.”

VYPE: Do you have a highlight for your career at Fort Gibson?

ZACK: “This year’s regional and state meets were big for me considering how many setbacks we had but were able to come together in the end.”

BRODEY: “It was my sophomore year when we set the record in the 200 medley relay.”

VYPE: What would you like your legacy at Fort Gibson to be?

ZACK: “Someone who was able to step up and lead and set an example for the younger guys.”

BRODEY: “Setting a good example and mentality both in swimming and in life to show that working hard can get you what you want.”

VYPE:What are your plans for after high school?

ZACK: “I’m going to OSU to study aerospace engineering.

BRODEY: “I’m planning to go to NSU and get into optometry.”