Germonprez ends high school career in record fashion

 Westside’s Nate Germonprez made a splash at the NSAA Swimming and Diving State Championships on Saturday, Feb.25 at the Bob Devaney Sports Center. The senior led the Warriors to a fourth place finish at the state meet.

Germonprez went into the state meet with high expectations as the senior has made a name for himself in the pool. He won two individual gold medals in the 100 and 200 freestyle events. Germonprez reacted to his state record in the 100 freestyle with a time of 43.17 seconds. 

“It feels pretty good, it’s the best time overall, a little tired after the medley relay but given the circumstances I am happy with it.” Germonprez said. 

Germonprez wanted to achieve his goal of under 43 seconds for his 100 freestyle swim, but unfortunately he was off by .17 of a second. Germonprez didn’t dwell on his time, as he will have many more chances to swim out of high school. 

“That’s the way swimming is, you can’t complain too much, you’ll have plenty of chances, I have many more years to swim.” Germonprez said.

Germonprez leaves Westside with four state records including the 200 freestyle (1:33.97), 50 freestyle (19.64), 100 freestyle (43.17) and the 100 backstroke (47.58). Germonprez’s freestyle stroke is one of his best swimming styles, he looks into more about why his is different then other swimmers. 

“It’s all kick driven, if you want to gallop on your freestyle you have to have a really strong kick to keep your body moving,” Germonprez said. “If you don’t have a strong kick you lose your momentum.”  

Germonprez goes forward in his career after high school, as he looks forward to swimming for the University of Texas. Germonprez continues to inspire young swimmers as he expresses that hard work will pay off. 

“Keep training, it’s a long process, you have many years, swim through high school, swim through college, just keep swimming and give it your all in practice and you will get there,” Germonprez said.  

Germonprez ends his high school career with the school record in all eight individual events. The senior cherished his last state meet with his Warrior teammates. 

“It’s good to race all these guys, it’s special to be in a meet like this with a good crowd, it’s a good experience,” he said. 

Germonprez heads to the University of Texas, where he will swim for one of the most celebrated college swimming programs and a chance to win a national championship.