Jan. 16, 2007

Freshman Chris Rouchard came to Maryland this season from Westlake, Ohio. In high school, Rouchard was named an All-American and Academic All-American. He also competed in Junior Nationals in 2005. This season, Rouchard has already had an impact for Maryland in the freestyle events. Rouchard talks about his time at Maryland so far, his goals for the rest of the season and his personal interests.

Q: What is the biggest difference between Maryland and your hometown?

Rouchard: They don't show the Browns playing on TV here, so that's a bummer.

Q: Who is your greatest role model?

Rouchard: My dad, Mark Rouchard.

Q: What is something you do before every meet?

Rouchard: Before every race, I look up at my Dad in the stands and give him a thumbs up.

Q: Have you ever played any other sports?

Rouchard: I played baseball and lacrosse back in the day.

Q: What are some of your favorites: movie, TV show, celebrity, athlete, food and band?

Rouchard: My favorite movie is Snatch, TV show is The Office, celebrity is Hugh Hefner, athlete is competitive eater Takeru Kobayashi, food is chicken wings and band is Rise Against.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time?

Rouchard: In my free time, I enjoy relaxing and playing cards.

Q: What are your goals for the rest of the season?

Rouchard: I want to go best times and score in the top 16 at ACCs.

Q: If you could meet anyone in the world who would it be?

Rouchard: Johnny Knoxville.

Q: What is the best thing about being a student athlete in college?

Rouchard: I really like being a part of a team.

Q: What has been your greatest athletic thrill?

Rouchard: Winning Disrticts in the 500-yard free my junior year of high school.

Q: What is your favorite thing about Maryland?

Rouchard: I like the weather and the people here at Maryland.

Q: What made you decide to come to Maryland?

Rouchard: I liked the team a lot, and the coaches made me feel right at home.

Q: How have you grown as a swimmer since you have been at Maryland?

Rouchard: I've learned to take pain and swim outside of my comfort zone during practice.

Q: What is something interesting about yourself that most people don't know?

Rouchard: I have a cat named Prince at home.