Barnhart Earns Gamer of the Week Honors

Teays Physical Therapy Center, Inc. and The Putnam Herald are pleased to present this week’s Female Gamer of the Week to Junior Gabrielle Barnhart of the Buffalo High School Swim team.  

Gabbie has proven that sometimes, the best things happen on a whim. What started as a spontaneous decision to sign up for the swim team in high school has turned into a three-year journey of success, leadership, and dedication—both in the pool and in the classroom. 

“I had swum before high school with a personal coach, but nothing serious until I saw the sign-up card at school,” said Gabbie. “I thought, ‘Why not?’ and I’ve loved it ever since.” From that moment, swimming became more than just a sport for Gabbie—it became a passion, a challenge, and an opportunity to lead others. 

Over the past three years at Buffalo High School, Gabbie has become a vital member of the swim team, excelling in events like the 50-yard and 100-yard freestyle. Her drive and commitment have paid off, as she placed 3rd in Region 4 for the 50-yard freestyle and earned a spot at the state competition. Yet, Gabbie’s greatest passion doesn’t just lie in her own achievements—it’s in supporting her teammates. “I love cheering and yelling for my teammates during meets,” she said. “My goal for myself and for my teammates is always for everyone to do their personal best, no matter what that is.” 

This mentality of support and encouragement comes from Gabbie’s strong family values, particularly the influence of her father. “My dad has always been there for me and told me to be the best I can be,” Gabbie shared. “He’s not only bettered me in life but as a swimmer, coaching me through it all.” 

Outside of the pool, Gabbie has been just as dedicated to her academics. She is an active member of the National Honor Society, the National Technical Honor Society, and participates in LINK Crew. Her achievements also extend beyond the classroom—Gabbie recently earned 3rd place in the Regional Skills competition for Basic Residential Wiring. 

Looking ahead, Gabbie is planning to pursue a degree in electrical engineering while continuing to swim at the collegiate level. Her commitment to both her education and her sport is a perfect reflection of her hard work, discipline, and leadership. 

Head coach Anessa Pitzer, quoted Margaret Thatcher when describing Gabrielle, “Don’t follow the crowd; let the crowd follow you.” It’s clear that Gabbie embodies this mindset both in her athletic pursuits and in life, leading by example and inspiring everyone around her to reach their full potential. 

With a bright future ahead, Gabbie is poised to make waves—not only in the pool but also in her future career as an engineer. One thing is certain: wherever Gabbie goes, success and leadership will follow. 

Please look for other local high school athletes to be named in next week’s Female Gamer of the Week Sponsored by Teays Physical Therapy Center, Inc. and The Putnam Herald.

MEGAN SCARBERRY, MS, CPT, POTENTIAL PLUS INSTRUCTOR AT TEAYS PHYSICAL THERAPY CENTER INC.