Lincoln Way Central swimmer Jack Mroz reflected on his previous season, during which he qualified for all four events and competed at the state level. He emphasized the importance of discipline, team culture and his aspiration to earn state medals this year in both relays and individual events.
“Last year I was able to qualify in all four of my events at sectionals. I did fairly well at state — I wasn’t able to place, but I’m hoping this year to place in my relays and my individuals,” said Mroz, senior swimmer. “A lot of what Danny [Fiske] said. The hard work we put in is rewarded, and it’s worth it to be on a team at this level. We’ve earned it, and we can go farther than we think. Discipline is huge with Coach Shaughnessy — being late, being on time, that’s something you have to teach and learn, Mroz said. “Like Danny said, medal at state — in both relays and hopefully in at least one of my individuals. I really want to see the majority of our team at state, which I think we’ll be able to do this year at sectionals. I think it would be fun to see everyone down there, not just in the stands.”
Mroz successfully qualified for all four of his events at sectionals last season, granting him the opportunity to compete at the state meet. Although he did not place at state last year, Mroz said he gained valuable experience competing at the highest level.
According to Mroz, the team’s success can be attributed to consistent hard work and a disciplined environment that rewards preparation and accountability. He believes that the team has not yet reached its full potential and is capable of advancing further than expected this season.
Mroz said his primary goal this season is to medal at state in relays and at least one individual event while helping send a majority of the team to the state meet.
