Royal Purple

Issue date: 2/20/08 Section: Sports

Alf

Name: Casey Alf

Year: Senior

Major: Biology

Hometown: Fort Atkinson

What led to your decision to transfer to UW-Whitewater after competing for a Division II program for one year?

I attended Mankato State (Minn.) for my freshman year but felt it was too far away from home and realized I would be more relaxed at a Division III program.

What has been the best part of this season so far?

I believe developing a better relationship with Coach Rollings. He makes me feel comfortable and has really helped me reach my potential this year.

How do you feel you have changed and developed as a student-athlete since your freshman season?

I feel I handle responsibilities better and realize that you have to train and work hard if you want to get better, as a student and as an athlete. Also I've learned that experience and practice is the key to success.

What were your goals as a team and as an individual when the season started?

Are you achieving them? I try to help my team out as much as possible. As a team, we mainly focus on dropping [improving] our times and I believe we have done this so far. Personally, I am looking to get to Nationals, but I haven't qualified yet.

Would you choose swimming at Nationals this year or having the opportunity to attend the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China and get the chance to meet swimming icon Michael Phelps?

It's a tough choice, but I would attend the Olympics and meet Michael Phelps.

Do you have any rituals before a meet, or are you superstitious?

I can never swim without wearing my special blue goggles and after every meet I drink blue Gatorade. I also splash myself three times before stepping onto the starter block.

How long have you been swimming competitively and who influenced you to get involved in the sport?

Since I was 6 years old, so it's been 16 years now. All of my older siblings swam competitively, so it's been a family sport.

Who is your hero?

My mom is my role model.

What is your favorite meal that you have to have after a meet?

Macaroni and cheese.

What's your favorite TV show?

I can't go a week without watching Grey's Anatomy.

What's your favorite movie?

Superbad.

Who is a celebrity or athlete you would want to spend the entire day with?

Actor Dane Cook.

What are your hobbies, outside of swimming?

I like to hang out with friends, coach my local swim team and enjoy lifeguarding.

If you could have one wish, what would it be?

World peace.

Where is your favorite travel destination?

My favorite vacation occurred when my sister and I traveled to Cancun, Mexico, last year.

What is your message to the underclassman as you depart in the spring?

Even when the times get tough, never give up. There are going to be difficult moments over the course of the season, but you have to fight through them and have fun in the process.

-compiled by Chris Kuhagen

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