The University of Tampa men’s and women’s swim teams both had superb seasons last year, finishing 11th and 12th in the nation, respectively.
There were a combined 11 All-Americans from both squads, as well as some standout freshmen. Sophomore David Humphrey was one of those standout freshmen last year.
Humphrey spoke very highly of the coaching staff last year and credits them with helping out the team, especially freshmen such as himself.
“Last year the coaching staff was really above par; they were looking for us to be independent and take the lead, and it really helped by the end of the season,” Humphrey said.
After a successful year of excelling in relays and the 100 meter free, Humphrey said he is ready to continue growing as a swimmer and as a leader.
“Last year was a lot of fun, but I was just a freshman,” Humphrey said. “This year I’m looking forward to stepping up and taking on more of a leadership role.”
What makes Humphrey different from other swimmers is his ability to stay focused and determined.
“I have one goal; to get better, and I’m not fading from that goal. I know I have the year long dedication to improve as a student and as a swimmer. When it comes to swimming, it’s all about perseverance,” Humphrey said.
“I’m excited for this year. We got a huge recruiting class and everybody has to prove themselves. I love the competitiveness of it all.”
With 20 new freshmen on both swim teams, the competition is more existent than ever.
The women’s team had their fair share of standout freshmen as well last season. Madeleine Clark and Hilary Stetekluh had a great deal of success in 2009, helping the team earn the number 12 ranking in the country.
“What makes us different from other swimmers is that we never get too discouraged. We know there is always another chance to shine,” Stetekluh said.
“Too many swimmers let their emotions get the best of them after a disappointing performance. We swim because it’s fun, and we leave the past behind us and look forward to the future.”
This laid back attitude has been very effective for Clark and Stetekluh, as well as the rest of the team. Clark credits her mother for helping her play through pressure.
“You can’t take life too seriously,” Clark said. “Simply having a positive attitude on whatever it is you are doing will make you enjoy it much more, without worrying or stressing.”
While Stetekluh and Clark like to have fun, they also understand what it means to be a student athlete, and they put academics first.
They take every practice seriously, and hopefully that rubs off on the freshmen this year.
“For us, the key to doing well and being happy is balance,” Clark said. “It’s important to work hard in school and swim hard, but there’s nothing wrong with having some laughs along the way.”
Coach Kiner shared his thoughts on the upcoming season.
“We lost a lot of seniors and All-Americans, but we had a great recruiting class and we filled up a lot of holes.” Coach Kiner said. “We just missed out on the top ten nationally last season, for both the men’s and women’s teams. We really want to get into the top ten this year.”
For the first time this year, there is going to be a conference meet featuring all of the teams in the SSC. It will take place in Orlando and Coach Kiner expects UT to come out on top.
The swim team will start their season Oct. 9.
John Hilsenroth can be reached at jhilsenroth@spartans.ut.edu.