Feb. 4, 2010

COLLEGE PARK, Md. - As part of the week leading up to Senior Day on Friday, Feb. 5, Umterps.com will highlight one of Maryland's five men's swimming and diving seniors each day. Today's senior is Chris Rouchard.

Chris Rouchard has served a pivotal role as captain this season, mentoring a very young Maryland team. This season, his 500 free time of 4:26.72 scored him a B-cut performance and is currently ranked seventh in the ACC. He also led Maryland to the 2009 Terrapin Cup Invitational title by winning the 500 and 1650 free and helping guide the 800 free relay to a win. His 15:39.60 was a lifetime best in the 1650 free. As a junior, he had four personal bests at the ACC Championships in the 200 free (1:40.12), 500 free (4:23.79), 1000 free (9:23.61), and 1650 free (15:44.5). He also joined fellow senior Brian Honore as a member of the seventh-place 800 free relay team (6:34.02) at the ACC Championships.

ROUCHARD Q & A

Umterps.com : What has been the one highlight that sticks out in your mind from your time at Maryland?
CR: I think perhaps one of the best memories I have had here at Maryland is when College Park played host to the ACC championships last year. Having a meet that big in our home pool was an awesome experience. While it was very different not being able to travel for our big meet, it definitely offered a comfort factor competing in our own pool, something that we would not have had anywhere else. Not only was it nice being able to compete in our own pool, but we had the opportunity to watch the girls compete at their ACC competition, and that helped our team get pumped up for the meet awaiting us.

Umterps.com: Think back four (or five) years. How have you changed as an athlete? As a person?
CR: It is easy to say how we all have changed as athletes. The intense training and competition has made us all stronger, and more "comfortable being uncomfortable." As a person, I have learned to take what I have learned, and how I work in practice out of the pool and apply it to real life. I have learned to work hard in all aspects of my life and also to enjoy myself while doing it. Swimming can be a grueling and repetitive sport, but learning to have fun during it has made all the difference.

Umterps.com: How has Maryland swimming and diving changed since your arrival as a freshman?
CR: There is obviously the big change of the coaching staff we have had. However, in my experience the greatest change is how we have come closer as a team. The team is always together and I feel there are no "cliques"... everyone is a friend. This, and of course our team has gotten much better...we are a force.

Umterps.com: Give three reasons why a recruit would want to become a member of Maryland's swimming and diving team.
CR: Maryland offers outstanding academic and athletic programs, the team environment and closeness that one may not find anywhere else, and the opportunity to learn and grow in a team environment to one's maximum potential.

Umterps.com: What do you plan to do after graduation?
CR: I have always wanted to serve in the military, so I feel I will do that for a few years. After that, however, I plan to come back to DC and work for the government. That is what I would ultimately like to do.

Umterps.com: Any departing advice?
CR: I have swam the past 10 years of my life for one reason - I love doing it. Sure I would like to be the best, but I think it is more important to love what you are doing. This is something that people need to keep in mind. While many people are racing for money or getting power, just remember it's only worth it if you are having fun, and it is truly what you want to do.