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 men's swimming and diving's team captains. The 2007-08 captains are junior Jake Hoffmann and seniors Travis Floyd and Joe Wilson. This week we sit down with senior co-captain Travis Floyd.
What do you feel your role is as captain this year?
To make sure the team is going in the right direction. I try to keep everyone motivated, peppy and excited for practices and meets.
Can you talk about a time you put this role into action?
Usually my biggest role is at meets. As motivational captain, I talk in the huddle before meets and try to keep people on their feet and cheering regardless of how good or bad we're doing.
Why do you feel you were tabbed as a team captain this year?
I was a captain last year and feel I did a good job. I like to think I've gained respect with the other swimmers during my time here.
What are you looking to accomplish during your senior season?
Team wise, we have always wanted to beat Texas A&M at conference. I would like to go out my senior year being part of the team that actually did it. One of our other big goals is to have the best record possible during the dual season. Individually, I'd like to get my name on the record board in the 100 and 200 back.
How did it feel to get a win at the Show Me Showdown after the season opening loss to Indiana?
It was nice to get the win, but I was more impressed with the way the team responded. I usually concentrate on the way we respond in those situations and not just the win.
What were your thoughts heading into this past Thursday's dual with A&M?
I was excited. It was my last time to dual A&M. They are our biggest rival and who we gun for every year. I always get excited and pumped up going into it.
How did it feel to beat the Aggies after last year's four point loss?
It was great. After the meet I thanked the freshmen for stepping up as well as my fellow seniors. It just feels good to go out a winner against them.
What was the mood like in the locker room after the win?
It was a good atmosphere. They're our rival and just like in any other sport, when you beat your rival you're pretty excited about it.
How did racing two top teams to open the season help you and your teammates prepare for the rest of the season?
It's a good gauge to see where you are as a team. It is nice to get out and race those fast teams early in the season. It also brings a sense of urgency to your practices to get in shape and ready to go.
The team received votes in Tuesday's College Swimming Coaches Association of America (CSCAA) Top 25 Poll. What effect has this had on the attitude of the team?
It brings a feeling of excitement to the team. It's great knowing that Texas A&M is ranked ahead of us and we beat them. We've been ranked before so now we need to concentrate on maintaining that ranking and staying focused the rest of the season.
The team has the week off from dual action this week. How do you take advantage of this given that you guys have four duals in three days next weekend?
We're using this time to rest. We've raced four times this far in the season and it takes a lot out of you. It's nice to have some time to concentrate on class work and get ready for next weekend.
What's your prediction for the women's dual with Kansas on Friday?
Mizzou 164, Kansas 119
If you could describe Kansas in one word what would it be?
When I think of Kansas I always think of "The Wizard of Oz." If I only had one word though I guess it would be `resilient.' They've got some good teams over there that always bring their best against us.
What is your prediction for the Mizzou-Iowa State football score this Saturday?
Mizzou 49, Iowa State 17