SPRING GROVE, Pa. -- Hundreds of people in York County are celebrating Hali Flickinger, an Olympian from Spring Grove.
Flickinger may have finished 7th in the 200 meter butterfly at 2016 games, but she finished first in the eyes of people from her hometown.
"Just being on a team - the US team above all, representing our country, it was just incredible being there being at the Olympics. I can't really describe it in words," Flickinger said.
A crowd of people attended a parade in honor of the 22 year old. She was named an honorary police officer by the Southwestern Regional police department.
Her family said they couldn't be prouder.
Hali's mother, Lea Flickinger, said, "Our whole family. We just have so much family support, and the community support is wonderful."
Flickinger also talked to kids at the York YMCA where she used to swim. She described what it's like to compete in the Olympics.
She said, "I just want to be an inspiration to them and show them that dreams do come true."
Many kids who live in York County said she does just that.
Ashlyn Fritz, from Spring Grove, said, "It shows that Spring Grove people can make it to the Olympics."
At the end of the day she was celebrated at the York Revolution game and threw the first pitch. She later signed more autographs for hundreds of fans.
Her grandfather said even though she didn't medal, he still admires how hard she worked to make it to the Olympics.
Kenneth Krout, Flickinger's grandfather, said, "Well we have goose bumps every time we talk about it. No matter who we talk to, it gives you the chills that she made it that far."
Flickinger said swimming at the Olympics and coming home to a supportive community is an experience she will never forget.
She said, "To be able to have the American flag and represent that was really really special."
Flickinger said she's taking a break from swimming until October.