SNOHOMISH — Andrew Meneses has proven himself as one of the best prep swimmers in Snohomish County.
The Glacier Peak senior won the 100-yard freestyle event at last February’s 4A District 1 meet, then placed 15th in the event at the 4A state meet. Two years ago, he qualified for the 3A state meet in the 50 and 100 freestyle events. He’s also been part of Grizzlies freestyle relay teams that participated in state meets in 2015, 2016 and 2017.
“He works extremely hard,” said Glacier Peak coach Rob Serviss. “He’s committed to improving. He’s coachable and accepts feedback well. And he’s resilient; when he has a bad race, it doesn’t get him down. He focuses on his goals and thinks long term. He’s got all of the attributes that most successful athletes have.”
The Herald recently spoke with Meneses about his swimming career, future plans and other athletic endeavors:
When and how did you start swimming? What do you like about the sport?
I started lessons at (Mill Creek’s) WEST Coast Aquatics when I was 3 years old. My parents and I decided that I liked being in the water, so I joined the swim team there. After a couple of years, I switched to Gold’s Aquatics Club in Woodinville, and last year I moved to the Snohomish Stingrays. I like the racing part (of swimming); it’s really fun. And the team aspect of high-school swimming is important to me as well; it’s helped me develop as a leader and a person.
What’s the biggest obstacle you’ve had to overcome to get to where you’re at?
Being on a club team that doesn’t train you correctly can alter your progress. I switched to a club that focuses more on my events, and that’s really affected my swimming. I feel that I’m getting faster in those events.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I plan on swimming in college for a Division-III program. I’m looking at some schools in California — California Lutheran University and University of Redlands. I can also swim at Pacific Lutheran University.
What would you like to study in college?
I’m thinking about majoring in either multimedia or psychology. I’d like to look into (careers) related to web design or things that involve the use of digital resources. I’ve taken classes in digital media and web design, and I’ve worked with stuff on (Adobe) Photoshop and Illustrator.
Do you have any other hobbies or interests?
Before I started to focus solely on swimming, I used to do martial arts. I did kempo karate for 10 years, and earned the rank of black belt. Sometimes I do some of the old moves at home, and I do plan on getting back into martial arts at some point after I’m done with (competitive) swimming. I like the discipline aspect (of martial arts). It makes you really humble, too; I tend to not brag about my accomplishments, and that’s probably from martial arts. And it makes you confident; you feel that nothing can stop you or harm you.
How would you describe your personality?
I like to think creatively, outside of the box. I’m also really relaxed, and patient, which I attribute to my leadership role on the swim team. I like to joke around with my teammates, but when it’s time to get serious, I get serious. But for the most part, I’m (easy) to be around.
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