Boston College Athletics
Q & A with Dan Kelly
October 08, 2014 | Swimming
Chestnut Hill, Mass. -
Dan Kelly will enter his third season swimming with the BC Eagles this year in 2014-2015. The Illinois native holds two BC records: 19.78 in the 50 yd. freestyle and 22.70 in the 50 yd. butterfly. Kelly has been a strong force on the team since his freshman year and has continuously improved with each successive season. Here is a chance to learn a little more about Dan Kelly.
How did you get started swimming?
Although I have been participating on various swim teams since the age of four, I was always more interested in other sports such as football and water polo. In fact, I had no interest in swimming in college until about December of my senior year in high school when my older sister convinced me to `just try doing it freshman year.'
How did you prepare for the Olympic Trial in California, and what was it like to qualify?
This summer I had an amazing opportunity to train amongst many national team members and Olympic gold medalists at UC Berkeley. Just being surrounded by so much success helped motivate me to do everything in my power to reach my goals. It was very rewarding and special to swim an Olympic trial qualifying time at US Nationals this summer, and I look forward to competing at trials in June of 2016.
What was it like to be awarded MVP for BC last season?
It was truly an honor to be awarded MVP last season, especially because many of my teammates also deserved the award. It was exciting to share the award with Maureen Barron - a fellow Fenwick High School teammate and close friend - who was awarded MVP on the women's team.
What is it like to be on the BC swim team- how does it compare to past teams and experiences?
Just being a member of the BC swim team is one of the greatest blessings I have ever received. While swimming is often criticized for being an `individual sport,' BC swimming is the most team-oriented program I have ever been a part of. Coach Tom Groden does an incredible job of teaching us all to be leaders and motivators to each other - it's this collective effort to succeed that makes our team so special to me.
What are your expectations and/or hopes for this upcoming season?
Each year I have been here the team has improved more and more - the record books are almost completely re-written from year to year. As a team this season I hope continue this trend. Individually, it is my goal to make a name for Boston College Swimming for the first time in school history at the NCAA Championship in late March.
How much time do you spend training in the pool versus in the weight room?
During the fall season I spend upwards of fifteen hours in the pool (a few hours for club water polo practice), and four hours in the weight room per week.
Why did you choose BC?
Boston College had always been high on my list for its academic excellence. When I visited campus on a gorgeous day in late march, however, the incredible community here at Boston College was ever-present, and the choice was obvious. In fact, my Dad booked a hotel for orientation weekend before I even told him I was choosing BC.
What is your major, and what do you hope to be doing in 5 years?
I am currently studying communication, while also taking on a course load that will be the equivalent of a concentration in Marketing. I hope to earn a master's degree in business administration and pursue a career in marketing.
Do you have any plans or ideas about swimming after your time at BC?
After my final season at BC, I plan to continue training for Olympic trials in June of 2016. It will either be an amazing way to end my swimming career, or a miraculous continuation with a journey to Rio. Since I will be competing against over 100 qualifiers per event for only 4-6 spots, however, it will truly be a difficult spot to snag.
By Megan C. Healy
