Name: Michael Benington
Year: senior
Hometown: Hinsdale
When did you start swimming competitively and why?
I started club swimming in fourth grade. I think it was my mom having me try different sports. Swimming is the one that stuck with me.
What is your favorite event?
The 200 individual medley is my favorite event. You get to be a lot more of a versatile swimmer because you get to swim every stroke. It's just a really fun swim to race. I think during the off-season (with FMC Aquatic) probably the 200 back.
What is your most challenging event?
A lot of the shorter events - the 50 and the 100 - are a lot harder for me. I like the longer races because I have little more time to get into them.
Do you have any pre-meet routines?
The whole team a couple of nights before (a taper meet) will shave their whole bodies. That's kind of a cool thing we do as a team which really helps in the water.
What do you try to do as one of the team captains?
We help some of the younger kids, especially the kids that move up to varsity or if it's their first time, teach them the ropes and encourage them through the season, because mentally swimming can be such a tough sport.
What is your goal for the season?
I want to drop time in every event. My goal is to 'A' final in both the 200 IM and the 100 back, but also to help the team in the 400 free relay and the 200 free relay.
Will you swim in college?
Hopefully yes. I haven't committed yet.
Why does coach Bob Barber like having Benington on the team?
We are extremely proud of how much Michael has grown in the sport of swimming. As a swimmer, Michael was not on our radar coming into high school, but after four years of dedication and hard work he will be missed immensely. Michael has earned multiple spots on our state lineup this season and has qualified for Junior Nationals in a handful of events as well. As one of our four captains this season, Michael has done a very nice job of leading our underclassmen both in the pool as well as the weight room. Whatever school he chooses to attend will benefit from his presence on the team.
