Featured Athlete of the Week: Nathan Gardner, Swimming, Greencastle High School

Nathan Gardner, 17, is a student athlete at Greencastle High School. He was born on April 3, 1996 to Craig and Shelley Gardner. He has one sister, Krista Gardner.
His favorite teacher is Mr. Michael Meyer and his favorite class is E.M.T. In school he is involved in band, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and French Club.
His favorite food is any type of breakfast food but he added, "being a swimmer, almost anything." Gardner's favorite movie is 'Cool Runnings' and he listens to all types of music.
He has lettered in swimming all four years and he has achieved the honor of being All-County, All-Conference and this year, a State qualifier.
On Friday, he will swim one leg of the 200 freestyle relay at the IHSAA State Finals, along with Nash Firebaugh, Elijah Brattain and Taylor Secrest.

Banner Graphic: What were your team and individual goals for swimming this year?
Nathan Gardner: This year our main goal as a team was to get at least one relay to score at state. So far we have accomplished stage one of that goal and we are looking ahead to our attempt at doing this, this weekend. As an individual my goals were simply to have fun and do my best.

BG: Who has had the biggest influence on you in life?
NG: The person who has had the biggest influence on my life is my dad. He has shown me how important how hard work is, and that sometimes when things really aren't going your way just relax, do your best, have fun, and make the most of it.

BG: What lessons have you learned from swimming?
NG: The main thing I have learned from swimming is that no matter how daunting the task looks, I can always get through it. Before a big swim set you always have that feeling of doubt that you will not be able to do it, but by the end of the set when you finish you feel so accomplished!

BG: How much have you learned over the years from your teammates?
NG: The Greencastle team is like a huge family, we are all like brothers. It is as simple as that.

BG: What do you like to do in your spare time?
NG: In my spare time I like doing anything with my best bros. I enjoy cycling, swimming and playing the drums. I am also a huge fan of Netflix.

BG: What effect has making the state finals had on you?
NG: I am so grateful and thrilled that I finally get to swim at the IHSAA State Meet. It has been my goal since freshman year after having the chance to watch and support my fellow teammates at this meet. Having this opportunity to swim at the state meet seems surreal.

BG: What are your plans for after high school?
NG: After high school I plan to have a wonderful summer here in Greencastle, Indiana, and then plan to attend either Indiana University, or University of Indianapolis in the fall.