Printer Friendly Version - Carlson Emerges as Versatile Leader for HK Swimming

Junior Will Carlson had matured into a quality leader for the Haddam-Killingworth boys’ swimming and diving squad. Will is playing a big role in the 100 breaststroke, 200 medley relay, and 400 freestyle relay this season.

Whether he’s doing relays, individual events, or leading his teammates outside of the pool, Will Carlson is emerging as a standout swimmer in his junior season at Haddam-Killingworth.

Will started swimming competitively in 7th grade before briefly trying cross country as a freshman at HK. Now in his third season with the boys’ swimming and diving squad, Will is showing versatility by swimming the 100 breaststroke, along with the 200 medley and 400 freestyle relays. He’s also setting a strong example of what it takes to succeed for his underclass teammates, according to Head Coach John MacDonald.

“Will has been a huge contributor in the 100 breaststroke, 200 medley, and 400 freestyle relays for our team. Will is a junior and really has been acting as a leader,” says MacDonald. “He sets a great example in practice, at meets, and in school with his behavior. I look forward to seeing him swim at the end of the season and next year, as well.”

Will kicks off every meet by swimming the 200 medley relay, an event in which he can showcase his skills in the breaststroke. The 100 breaststroke is Will’s favorite event and it’s one he’s excelled at throughout his time with the Cougars.

“I like how it’s easy to see your progression with your times in swimming. I started in the 200 medley my freshman year, but I was one of the better guys at the breaststroke,” says Will. “I really like the breaststroke because it doesn’t have that high-endurance feeling, so it’s more about technique.”

Although he’s made a splash individually in the breaststroke, Will still enjoys the camaraderie and shared success that comes with being part of a relay.

“It feels good to be on a team with a good relay group. It’s better to be a part of a group because it feels good to be a part of something successful with other people,” Will says. “In solo events, it’s about you wanting your best time. In relays, it’s more about scoring points for the team.”

Swimming is a sport that requires a great deal of discipline to excel and Will demonstrates that trait to others, along with the importance of cohesiveness away from competition.

“Outside of the pool, I try to set an example of being respectful to others no matter what grade they are in and treating others as you want to be treated,” says Will. “In the pool, it’s about showing the other guys that you have to work hard constantly.”

One standout moment for Will from the recent regular season was when he squeaked out a come-from-behind victory in the breaststroke. Now competing in the postseason, Will is aiming at new heights for both himself and his Cougar colleagues.

“I had a race this year where I was neck and neck with this other kid, but then during the last 25 [meters], I pulled through and out-touched him at the wall by a fraction of a second and it was in an exciting atmosphere with everyone cheering for us,” says Will, who thanks Coach MacDonald and former coach Devon Moore. “As a team, we want to qualify as many people as possible for states.”