Everyone wants to start the swimming season well. Some do, some don't.
Lower Dauphin's Caleb Walters started strong with two wins at the Dover Eagle Invitational in the opening weekend of the season. He won the 500-yard freestyle with a 5:02.65 and the 200 Individual Medley with a 2:08.52.
Walters, a junior, saw his times drop drastically at the end of last season, and hopes to carry that momentum into the 2013-2014 campaign.
The following interview took place after Walters won the 100 freestyle (51.92) and 200 freestyle (1:53.55) in the Falcons' meet at Palmyra on Tuesday.
How and when did you start competitive swimming?
I started when I was seven at a club. It was sort of a learn to swim class. The coach said I had a good stroke so I stayed afterwards one day. That winter I tried out for the Hershey Aquatic Club.
Who do you consider to be your mentor in swimming?
My coach from Hershey, Greg Fastrich. He's helped me with my times and everything.
What was your top moment from last season?
The district meet, when I swam the 500, I broke five minutes for the fist time. It was a big jump frm a 5:04 to a 4:55. Also the Red Land meet from last year, because we won on the last relay.
How important was it for you to have a good start to your season at the Dover Invitational?
I was kind of looking at my times from the previous two years, from beginning to end. I was getting a good idea of how I'll be at the end [of this season].
What are your goals for this season?
I'd like to make it into a final at states. Probably in the 500, but I'd take any of them.
What about the 500 freestyle makes you prefer that event?
I just like distances. I'm not to much of sprinter unless I have to be.
How does high school swimming compare to club swimming?
It's definitely a closer team in high school. Going from Hershey [Aquatic Club] to Lower Daupin is a jump because there aren't as many swimmers. It's easier for us to all get together and go to a movie.