Junior Tyler Curran, member of the Hackley swim team since eighth grade, has his sights set on high achievement this season. A dedicated swimmer, Tyler spends more than 17 hours a week in the pool. “Swimming is a big part of my life,” Tyler says, but Tyler doesn’t just swim for Hackley. He is also a member of the Empire Aquatics Club and has been for seven years.
Finding a balance between outside and inside of school swimming can be difficult at times. Conveniently, Empire uses the Hackley pool and a pool in Ardsley for most of their practices which helps Tyler to manage his busy schedule.
However, Tyler’s endurance and strength in the pool isn’t just a result of rigorous practice. Tyler is also a triathlete and constantly training outside the pool as well. “Training for triathlons definitely carries over to the pool,” Tyler said.
While triathlons generally improve Tyler’s in-pool performance, unfortunately, Tyler fractured his elbow when he wiped out in the biking portion of a triathlon this fall. After completing weeks of physical therapy, Tyler is certain that he is back, and “more ready to compete than ever.”
Coupled with Tyler’s work ethic is his devotion to the team and the other swimmers on it. Liam Bogart, an eighth grade swimmer, said that “Tyler is friends with everyone on the team”. Junior Erik Bostrom, member of both Empire and Hackley’s swim team agrees, adding “Tyler’s commitment to swimming is nearly unmatched.”
Tyler’s dedication and hard work is extremely beneficial to the Hackley team. Liam says that Tyler has served as a mentor for him in his development as a swimmer. Varsity swim coach John Gillard says, “whenever [Tyler] is at practice he works hard.”
With the votes for captain nearly underway, Tyler will definitely be a strong candidate. “I have always looked up to the captains in previous years” Tyler says, “I hope that I can continue the tradition of being a strong team leader.” Tyler feels that a strong leadership base is important to any successful team, and hopes to be able to lead the team this year. Whether or not he becomes captain, Tyler will continue his strong work ethic. “Even though he just started his junior year, he has a strong personality which leads to his great leadership qualities,” Mr. Gillard said.
Tyler hopes that his hard work will pay off during the season. After winning the Ivy League championships for the past two years, the swim team aspires to match the success of the previous teams. Tyler was the Ivy League champion in the 500 freestyle as a sophomore and his best time is only one second away from an Ivy League Record. As one of the fastest swimmers on the team, Tyler will do his best to lead the team to yet another victorious season. With the support of his teammates, Tyler believes a successful season is certainly not out of reach.
