Boys Swim Spotlight: Ike Ruszkowski

Sophomore Ike Ruszkowski is a hotspot in Riley Swimming, especially in his event, the 100 back. Ike is the 2022 sectional champion in the 100 back event which he achieved at the sectionals held at Riley.

Ike and many of his teammates including junior Ashton Maurer, junior Jarek Ruszkowski, sophomore Chris Bartmess, and freshman Paddy Chapman then traveled and competed at the Boys Indiana State Swim Championships at the IUPUI natatorium down in Indianapolis. Having his teammates also able to compete with him at the state championship allowed for him to have a great experience.

When asked what he was most proud of this past season, he took a more team-oriented approach. “I’m most proud of the effort we put in, the 4:30 in the morning practices 5 out of 7 days a week in order to show off in the pool during meets,” he commented.

He hopes that next year, even more of his teammates can experience the state meet like he did this year. Personally, next year Ike hopes to break the 200 Individual Medley, 100 back, and the 200 Medley Relay to bring home many sectional titles. Ike has two more years on the team, but he already feels that he has so much to be thankful for towards Riley Swimming.

Specifically, he wants to thank his brother Jarek, his teammates Chris and Ashton, and also Coach VanDriessche who has been his coach for multiple years. He attributes some of his swimming success to them for pushing him past what he thought he was capable of.

Congratulations Ike and to all of the Riley Boys Swim team for an excellent season. And as always, go Cats!