As the saying goes, the early bird catches the worm. While some may think that waking up at 4:30 a.m. to attend a morning swim practice is not ideal, it’s the reality for junior Gordon Stempson and other dedicated swimmers like him.

 Putting in ten to twelve hours a week for swim, Stempson has learned to manage his time in a way that works for him. On a typical night, he goes to sleep around 10:30 p.m. so that he is completely rested and ready to go in time for morning practice at 5:30 a.m.

 For boys swim and dive, morning practice is a way to get more time in the pool. Starting with a warm-up and a drill set, the early bird swimmers have more space and time to complete their workout. 

“There are fewer people at the morning practice,” Stempson said. “Normally, at afternoon practices the lanes are so crowded, and you don’t have much room. It’s really nice to have two people per lane so that you can sprint every set and get a better workout.”

 And the hard work pays off. Over the course of his swimming career, Stempson has been awarded summer MVP swimmer, most inspirational, and most improved, along with being awarded medals at champ meets. Stempson just keeps swimming, working hard and hoping to make it to districts in February. 

On top of this, Stempson dedicates six hours a week as a swim instructor, teaching swimmers ages three to fifteen years old. Between swim practice, meets, school, and teaching lessons, Stempson has mastered the art of time management.

With all his success and commitment to swim this year, Stempson is looking forward to making a splash in his senior year.