Get to Know Halle ...
At what age did you start swimming and how did you get into the sport?
- I started swimming at the age of 8 after a close friend of mine told me to try it. I instantly loved it.
What routines do you practice before a big race to help you focus and stay ready?
- Listening to music always helps me get in the zone and to stay calm. I also like cheering for my teammates to get my energy and vibes up before a race.
What is something that someone wouldn't know about you?
- I have never eaten sushi.Â
What sport would you play if you did not swim and why?
- I would try cross country because I used to do it when I was younger, and even though it's a grueling sport, it's also very rewarding.Â
What advice would you give to young athletes who are just starting out in swimming?
- Push yourself past your limits because you are always capable of accomplishing more than you think. And, most importantly, have fun.Â
Who is a role model in your life that pushed you to be better in and out of the pool?
- My mom has been my steady role model ever since I started swimming. Her unending support and love for both me and swimming got me to where I am today.Â
Why did you choose the University of Kansas?
- I chose KU because of the sense of community, high academic success and it has one of the strongest athletic programs in the country.
Top Collegiate Times
| Time |
Event |
Date |
Meet |
| 32.33 |
50 Y Breast |
10/27/2023 |
Alumni Meet |
| 1:04.53 |
100 Y Breast |
2/9/2024 |
Iowa State |
| 2:21.06 |
200 Y Breast |
2/9/2024 |
Iowa State |
| 2:06.70 |
200 Y IM |
2/26/2025 |
Big 12 Championship |
2024-25 (Sophomore)
- Academic All-Big 12 Team
- Placed third in the 100 back (1:00.29) against Rockhurst on Dec. 7
- Posted a lifetime best of 2:06.70 in the 200 IM at the Big 12 Championship
2023-24 (Freshman)
- Academic All-Big 12 Rookie Team.
- Earned her top times in the 100-yard breaststroke (1:04.53), 200-yard breaststroke (2:21.06) and 200-yard IM (2:10.42) at Iowa State on Feb. 9.Â
- Finished second in the 100-yard backstroke in the Lindenwood/South Dakota double dual on Oct. 20.
- Finished second in the 100-yard breaststroke against Rockhurst on Dec. 2.Â
High School
- Attended Lawrence Free State High School in Lawrence, Kansas
- 2022 First Team All-State member
- 2022 All-American 200 medley relay
- Sunflower League record holder in 100 breaststroke
- 2022 Sunflower League Champions
- 2022 Kansas 6A State Champions
- 100 breaststroke school record (1:05.00)
- 200 medley relay school record (1:45.29)
Personal
- Daughter of Scott and Justus McCullough
- Has two brothers, Braxton and Hudson
- Undecided on a major