Competitive swim taught JD Thumann that a person’s results are a direct reflection of what they invest. “This is a tough sport and you have to invest the time. Twice a day practice, extra gym time, sleep and recovery, nutrition. All of it matters. Doing this for years is what produces the results,” he says.
JD is a junior at Norman High School. “I swim primarily sprint events, the 50s and 100s for free, back, and fly. I really prefer the fast-paced swims.” JD’s main events focus on speed but coach Ben Hays always reminds him that the journey to becoming a great swimmer is a marathon, not a sprint.
Helping one another improve individually and as a group is one thing JD likes about being on a team. “Having a group around you that’s equally dedicated to the sport helps keep you going on the tough training days. Having them cheering at the end of the pool helps you push to finish the race strong,” says JD.
A role model who stands out is former club swimming teammate Jonathan Tang. “He balanced academics and swimming at a high level and he always supported and motivated me. He’s my go-to for advice and talking through big decisions.”
JD recalls a summer sectionals competition with Jonathan and other club teammates. “The meet is open to any age and a couple of colleges in the local area come to race too. Three of my previous club teammates that I had looked up to my entire swim career, Aiden, Jonathan and Daniel, came back to swim relays with me. Together we managed to win the 200Fr relay setting the sectional record and beating the University of Missouri. That was super cool for a 14-year-old,” JD said.
JD is supported and inspired by his parents. His dad reminds him to always have a short-term memory. “If you have one tough race, you can’t let it impact your entire meet. You have to process it quickly, learn from it, and mentally shift to give the next event your all.
“This isn’t exactly advice, but before every race my mother tells me she’ll love me even if I dive in and sink to the bottom of the pool. It’s her goofy way of reminding me that my parent’s love for me is unconditional,” says JD.
After high school, JD plans to attend the University of California Berkeley. “I’m excited to begin my collegiate swim career and see where it takes me. Go Bears!”
