Oct. 25, 2007
COLUMBIA, Mo. - Welcome to "Q&A With The Captains," a weekly segment that will feature a question-and-answer style interview with one of Mizzou women's swimming and diving's team captains. The 2007-08 captains are junior Lori Halvorson and seniors Arica Jacinto and Sarah Menefee. This week we sit down with senior co-captain Arica Jacinto.
What do you feel your role is as a captain this year?
I consider my main role to be keeping us focused on our goals. We can do some big things this year, but we'll have to remain focused. I also think it is important to make things fun for the girls.
Can you talk about a time when you have put this role into action?
Leading by example is what I try to do. Each year that I have been here I have given my all both in and out of the pool. I try to be responsible when it comes to swimming, school and in my social life.
Why do you feel you were tabbed as a captain this year?
I'm a very neutral person and get along with everyone. I'm not afraid to talk any of the girls. In general, I do what it takes to help myself grow as an athlete and to help my team.
What are you looking to accomplish during your senior season?
I don't want to have any regrets and want to leave knowing that I did my best. If I know that I did my best to get the girls to achieve then I can leave happy.
How did it feel to get that win against Indiana to open the season?
It was unbelievable. During the meet we all fed off of each other really well. It was one of the most exciting meets I've been a part of here.
What were your thoughts heading into this past weekend's action in Ames?
Being on the road I knew that it would be easy to get tired. It was important for us to have the right mentality heading into the weekend. I just tried to stay excited for the freshmen and everyone else on the team.
How did you feel the team competed against a top-10 caliber Texas A&M team on Saturday?
I thought we swam well considering we were on the road. We were not far behind them at the beginning of the meet and everyone tried their best throughout. That's what counted.
How does racing two tough teams to open the season help you and your teammates prepare for the rest of the season?
It serves as great motivation for us heading into the rest of our season. It was a great boost to beat Indiana and to swim well against A&M.
What are your thoughts heading into Friday's meet with Kansas?
The MU-KU rivalry is as old as can be and we don't want to lose. We have the capability to beat them and we're going to do our best to accomplish that.
If you could describe Kansas in one word what would it be?
Competitive.
What is your prediction for the Mizzou-Iowa State football score this Saturday?
Mizzou 35, Iowa State 21