Representing your school and your community is a tough task. Student athletes step up to
this challenge. One of these student athletes is Andrew Hamilton. Andrew Hamilton is a MODG
student who is a competitive swimmer. Andrew was willing to provide some insight into what it
is like to be a student swimmer.

“Why did you start swimming?”

Andrew: “I started swimming because I didn’t have a sport for a while and needed
something to be active. Also because I did water polo beforehand and had a solid base to start
swimming.”

 “What do you like about swimming?”

Andrew: “I like swimming because I stay active; I have made good friends with
fellow athletes and it has a competitive aspect.”

 “ How has swimming affected your life.”
Andrew: “Swimming has had a positive impact in my life. I’ve lost weight
swimming, gained muscle and strength, I’ve made great friends and I’ve learned and am still
learning how to perform my best under pressure.”

 “Do you think everyone should swim?”
Andrew:  “I don’t think everyone should swim because I think it’s a sport not built
for everyone. I think people should try it out, but I don’t believe it is for everyone.”

“Do you enjoy swimming?”
Andrew: “I do enjoy swimming. Sometimes not the swimming part but mostly the
social aspect of it.

“How long have you been swimming?”
Andrew: “I have been swimming for close to two years competitively?”

“What inspires you to swim?”
Andrew: “To be better at what I’m doing. The thought of if you are going to do something for a
while might as well get good at it.”

“Who inspires you to swim?”
Andrew: “Myself and my teammates. Myself, because I like to see the improvement of how far I
have come in a sport. Teammates, because I see how hard they are working it makes me want to
work hard as well also having some competition is motivating.”

“What are some things that people don’t know about swimming that
they should know about.”
Andrew: Some swimmers shave their entire body before an important competition.”

 “What are some health benefits of swimming?”
Andrew: “It works all muscles in the body it also keeps a large amount of weight off the spine,
unlike other sports. It is also the best form of cardio in my opinion.”

“What are some things that you don’t like about swimming?”
Andrew: “Swimming has long competitions that take up long periods of time.”

“How do you constantly stay active in swim during the school year?”
Andrew: “Making it routine and having coaches hold me accountable. They do understand if I
have a lot of homework. Getting out and exercising does help me recuperate.”

“Is there a specific goal you aim for while doing swim?”
Andrew: “I am trying to become a better overall swimmer by building up my speed, strength, and
endurance.”

 “What made you aim for this goal.”
Andrew: “Ever since I joined swim I have wanted to become more competitive and being better at
it is a nice bonus.”

“Final thoughts?”
Andrew: “Swimming has helped me become a more athletic person and has helped me build a
more competitive personality that carries itself into all aspects of my life.”