Swimmer, Greenwich, CT
Montesi was a standout swimmer for the Greenwich High Cardinals, going undefeated in individual events his senior year, breaking state backstroke and butterfly records and becoming an All-American athlete. He’ll head to Notre Dame next year, but first, he’ll compete in Omaha at the Olympic Trials.
How old were you when you realized your swimming talent? When I was 13, after I had an exceptional meet, I realized that this is the sport I wanted to pursue, so I stopped playing other sports and focused on swimming.
Are you nervous about the Trials? I think it’s good to be a little nervous, however, I am always confident in knowing that I put in a lot of hard work. The only thing different about this meet is that there are going to be so many people in the stands.
What’s the best part of swimming at your level—and hardest? The best part of being an elite swimmer just like any other elite athlete is enjoying your success. You are really the only one who knows how tough the training journey has been and that makes it that much more gratifying when you achieve your goals. The toughest part of being an elite swimmer is all of the sacrifices you have to make.
How has growing up in this area helped you get to where you are? Chelsea Piers Connecticut, my club team, has been great. My coach, Jamie [Barone], has taught me so much about the sport. I have adopted his mentality of keeping your mind on the bigger picture. My parents unconditional support for me has also been amazing, from helping me through some crucial decisions, to sacrificing sleep to driving me to practice, to being in the stands to watch me race—they were always there.
