Monett High School’s Winfrey signs letter to swim at Southwest Baptist University

On Wednesday, Feb. 12, Monett High School senior Sonnie Winfrey signed her national letter of intent to continue her academic and athletic swim career as a Bearcat at Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar. She plans to major in Exercise Science with an emphasis in rehabilitation and hopes to one day become an Occupational Therapist.
This year was her fourth year as a member of the Cubs varsity swim team and eighth year swimming competitively. Over the last  four years swimming in high school she has been a four time conference placer on a team that has been conference champions for the past six years. She was also a three time state qualifier. In addition, she has also received the “best teammate” award, “5th Woman” award, and the “Cub” award for leadership. She was also the 2024/25 team captain.
Along with swim she is also a member of the Key Club, National Honor Society, vice president of Student Council, track, her church youth group and the summer Water Thrasher swim team; all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA.
Winfrey said, “I chose SBU because of the community they have where everyone is close and uplifting while also holding each other to a higher standard. They also provide a Christ-centered atmosphere that aligns with my values. It is also not too far from the friends and family who have helped me get to where I am today, which is special to me.”
When asked about how she feels about swimming at the next level she said, “I am excited to be a part of the first swim team SBU has ever had and to see the great things they have planned come in to play. I am also looking forward to creating relationships with those on the team.”
Monett Cubs swim coach Jacob Barnes said, “We are thrilled that Sonnie chose to continue her swim career at SBU. The Bearcats are gaining more than just a terrific athlete, they are gaining an amazing teammate. Sonnie has the ability to bring out the best in those around her. Whether it’s providing encouragement during a hard workout, or organizing fun activities outside of practice, she is always trying to help people meet their potential. With her swimming in college she will continue to inspire Monett swimmers for years to come. With hard work and dedication great things happen.”
Assistant Coach Garrison Earnest said, “Sonnie will excel as a college athlete, not only because of her exceptional swimming ability but also because she embodies selfless leadership. Whether organizing special activities for her teammates or stepping aside to give an underclassman a chance in the relay, she consistently goes above and beyond. She has the determination, dedication, and drive to achieve great things at SBU. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments both in and out of the pool.”