The regular season has come to an end for the UW-Whitewater Men’s Swim and Dive program. This week, beginning Wednesday, they will begin the WIAC championships in Milwaukee. 

Junior swimmer Hunter Hayberger was a vital part of the team’s journey to their 4-3 record. He will also play a major role in the team’s efforts at the conference championships. 

Q: What were your goals for the regular season and were you able to accomplish them?

A: One of our big goals was that we wanted to be .500 in dual meets and we achieved that goal. We really wanted to be competitive at the championship meet and challenge for that third spot. With some of the freshmen really developing this year, I think we are going to give that third spot a real run for the money.

Q: What sort of obstacles arose for you this season and how were you able to overcome them?

A: I received an injury over winter break and it is still ongoing, but luckily we have a great training staff and [head coach] Elise [Knoche] has been great. We have just been collaborating and working together so that I can have a good championship.

Q: What were you most surprised by watching the team this year?

A: I was most surprised by how hungry the team was. We have a large freshman base and they came in and hit the ground running. They jumped right in the pool and beat some of the best swimmers in the WIAC so that was really great to see. 

Q: Who do you think had a breakout season?

A: Owen Phillips has really done a nice job. Relays aren’t easy and he has really jumped in that spot. Noah Johnson had an absolutely great midseason, it will be exciting to see where he goes. Caleb Weis, it has been a pleasure to race with him and I know he is going to have great success. 

Q: Who stepped into a leadership role this year?

A: Isaac Shroeder has been a big influence on this team and he is always so positive and brings a really great mindset. It is always great to have another mentor figure on the team and he has done great this year and I can’t wait to see what he does as a leader next year. 

The Warhawks will travel to Milwaukee, Wednesday Feb. 14 through Feb. 17 to compete in the WIAC championships with the goal of taking home third place or better.