Swimming lap after lap in a pool is one of the most demanding workouts that an individual can put their body through. However, it is also one of the most beneficial. For an athlete to train so hard and still be successful out of the pool in everyday life takes an incredible individual. The University of the Cumberlands is fortunate to have such a student-athlete in junior swimmer Eddie Von Hertsenberg (Cincinnati, OH).

As a team caption, Von Hertsenberg led his team during the 2007-2008 season, setting examples both in the pool at meets and practices, as well as out of the pool. He organized team study hall meetings throughout the season each week, emphasizing the importance of grades and education. Von Hertsenberg also offered extra help to many of his team members outside of study hall in case any one needed it.

Von Hertsenberg, along with his fellow teammates, also taught swim lessons to local school children for the past few years in Cumberlands? indoor pool. Being able to be a part of these young kids? lives makes a dramatic impact on each one of them, even if it is minimal. Von Hertsenberg is able to give back to the sport he loves, while allowing these children to become more comfortable in the water or possibly pursue a dream of swimming competitively. In addition, Von Hertsenberg taught private swim lessons to a physically-challenged teenager. Not only was this individual learning how to swim, but it was also a great therapy session each time he entered the pool.

UC Head Swim Coach, Garry Nelson, has been very impressed with Von Hertsenberg over the years and believes he makes a great team captain. ?Eddie is very helpful to everyone on the team,? states Coach Nelson. ?Whether it is a ride across campus or helping with homework, Eddie is always willing to help his fellow teammates. He is also a great role model because he comes out everyday for practice and works harder than most.?

Von Hertsenberg plans to graduate in May 2009 with a Bachelor?s degree in Management Information Systems. He has been offered an internship position this summer in Atlanta, Georgia for Rollins Inc. in his major field of study. Von Hertsenberg will return to Cumberlands for one more year of swimming and has high hopes for claiming a national title.

Article Provided by Kim Hamby, University of the Cumberlands Sports Information Student Assistant