Ethan Mercer wants his final season with the Corner Brook Rapids to be one where he puts his best stroke forward so he welcomes the help of somebody who knows a thing or two about the sport.
“I really want to make sure I do my best, get some good times and make some good memories with the team,” Mercer said Friday about his final season with the Rapids.
The 17-year-old Level 3 student at Corner Brook High will graduate in 2019 and begin his journey towards studies in the medical field with pathology and neurology at the top of his list of interests.
He wants to put in extra work this year to ensure he finishes on a strong note and he always welcomes a chance to rub shoulders with people who have accomplished great things in the sport.
His excitement for swimming is at its peak this week — and for good reason.
Olympian swimmer Brent Hayden will be in Corner Brook this weekend to share his wisdom and expertise with members of the Rapids at a three-day swim camp at the Corner Brook Arts and Culture Centre pool.
“I’m really excited, honestly. It’s really impressive that we’re having such a big star in swimming come to us to teach us stuff,” he said. “It’s quite a privilege. I can’t even believe it’s happening. I think it’s really cool.”
Having a new voice on deck is something Mercer believes will be refreshing. He said it will be a nice change to see how a professional goes about his way to be the best and the different techniques used to achieve success along the way.
It’s a great learning experience, he figures, so he appreciates the swim club for bringing the camp to Corner Brook. He has no doubt spending the weekend hanging out with Hayden will be a great investment of his time and energy.
“All I can think is he’s professional. He’s made a career out of this and hearing that he’s coming to teach us makes me feel like he can really open our eyes and give us more inspiration for swimming,” he said.
