Alex Emerson

Past Entries

Entry 1

Entry 2

Entry 3

Entry 4

Entry 5

November 23, 2004

The team trudged into morning practice last Saturday like most early mornings. (Of course, it was 9 o'clock, but that seemed especially early on that Saturday.)

After we got into our suits, caps, and goggles, Jon made an announcement that today we would have an opportunity for a get-out swim. A ripple of excitement went through the team.

A get-out swim involves everyone racing a certain distance, in this case a 200 freestyle, and if a number of randomly chosen people swim their goal times, the entire team gets out of practice early.

Jon announced that he chose six swimmers, and four of these swimmers must make their times for the team to end early. The catch is that only the coaches know who the chosen few are. It is necessary, then, for every person to swim fast just in case his or her time matters.

As the heats of the 200 freestyle progressed, it was pretty obvious that the team wanted to get out early. There were a number of great swims, and the team rallied to the cause by cheering loudly for each other.

At the climatic moment during the final heat, Stefan Miankowski touched the wall faster than his goal time, and the crowd erupted with cheers when Jon finally declared practice over.

After warmdown, the team descended upon the DUC breakfast buffet--according to Justin Hake--with gusto. Hopefully all of the eating helped get the team in shape for its next big competition, Thanksgiving dinner at home with our families.

Alex Emerson is a sophomore from Fishers, Ind. He would love to answer e-mail questions from Emory recruits and fans.