I went to the University of Michigan to swim and learn from some of the best. Being able to compete for Michigan was a total thrill. I had awesome teammates that taught me teamwork, perseverance, hard work, and dedication. I learned from everybody around me. I had the opportunity to be coached by a legend of the sport, Jon Urbanchek, as well as compete with Big Ten champions, All-Americans, NCAA champions, world champions, and Olympic champions daily! What an awesome experience!!! Some of my favorite moments came outside of the pool as we had a tight team and a fun group that also enjoyed just hanging out with one another.
We had a unique group of athletes I got to train with, and we were always pushing each other for more. That attitude and commitment extended beyond Michigan, we were able to think and dream big. It was supported by the leadership at Michigan from the Athletic Director down to each teammate. The competition was fierce within the walls of our pool (Matt Mann pool). The idea was that if we can compete with each other on a daily basis and if we could handle the crucible of training at Michigan, that meant we could race against anyone in the world.
I learned so much at a critical age by going to Michigan. I was away from my family for the first time and learning how to manage my time, keep my commitments, and rise to every challenge. Those things were key to my growth as an athlete and more importantly as a person.
Learning how to manage my time, keep my commitments, and rise to every challenge. Those things were key to my growth as an athlete and more importantly as a person.
Andy Potts