Senior swimmer Danny Aronson is an important contributor in freestyle events for the men’s swimming and diving team. Two weeks ago at Buffalo State, Aronson was one of three ‘Jackets to win two events, contributing to victories in both the 200-yard medley relay and the 400-yard freestyle relay.
How did you get interested in swimming?
I originally got into swimming as a way to stay in shape during the baseball offseason. I took swimming lessons when I was young and swam during the summer, but never started taking it seriously until I was about 12 or 13. Eventually, it surpassed baseball as my sport of choice, and by my junior year of high school, I had fully committed to swimming as my only sport.
What do you enjoy most about swimming at UR?
The thing I enjoy most about swimming at UR is the team atmosphere. Having a great relationship with my coaches and teammates makes going to practice every day so much easier. The way that we all support each other has allowed me to grow tremendously in my four years here.
How have you grown as an athlete over the course of your collegiate career?
I think most of my growth has come mentally. I swim more confidently now and pay much more attention to detail during practice. It is easy to come in as a first-year and be intimidated by the stronger competition that you see in college, but I feel that I’ve grown more comfortable each year, and it has allowed me to perform much better. I owe that to my teammates and coaches for having confidence in me.
What has been the highlight of your swimming career at UR?
The highlight of my swimming career so far is probably Liberty League Championships my sophomore year. Although this wasn’t our focus meet, the energy of the team was something that I hadn’t seen before. It was such a fun atmosphere, and everyone swam well beyond expectations.
How do you balance academics and athletics?
When balancing academics and athletics, it is important to have a good understanding with your coaches. Coach Wylam does a great job at understanding that academics come first for all of us and allows us flexibility with practice times if there is an academic conflict. Additionally, having friends on the team who are balancing the same workload as me makes the load easier.
Who has had the greatest impact on your athletic career, and why?
My parents have both had huge impacts on my athletic career. They both stressed to my sisters and I the importance of having fun doing what you do. They also push me and encourage me to be the best that I can be, and are my biggest supporters no matter what.
Who is your favorite professional athlete, and why?
I wouldn’t say I have a favorite professional athlete. I am an avid New York sports fan and follow those teams very closely. As far as swimmers, Caeleb Dressel is someone who I admire since he swims the same events that I swim. He is very admirable for his modesty given how dominant of an athlete he is.
If you were an animal, what animal would you be and why?
I would be a zebra because that’s what my sister tells me.
