Making the Pennsylvania State Championship swim meet in one event for swimming is a great accomplishment. Making it for two events is extraordinary. This is just what junior Dan Buschmann did at districts on Feb. 17. Buschmann picked up the bronze medal in both the 200-yard individual medley and the 500-yard freestyle. In doing so, he qualified for states, which will be held on March 9 and 10 at Penn State University. Buschmann is the only athlete from the Neshaminy swim team to qualify for states.

Were you surprised you made states in two events, and how do you expect to do when you get there?

I was shocked I made states in two events. I was swimming against great athletes from all over the district, and to qualify in two events makes me feel very good. I hope to improve on my times up at states and hopefully come home with some medals.

How do you prepare for a meet?

Before a meet I like to eat a lot of carbohydrates. This gives me some extra energy while I am swimming. I always get in the pool to warm-up. I do not have a specific workout I do. I just like to get in and wake my body up.

How long have you been swimming? What teams have you been on?

I started swimming when I was eight years old. I used to swim for NRG and Eastern Express. Now I swim for the school team and Spirit.

Why did you start swimming? Did you enjoy it?

I started swimming because my mom never really learned how to swim and she always wanted her kids to learn. I enjoyed it when I first started. Now I just do it because I am good at it.

What are your thoughts about this past swim season?

We had a good year for the kids that we had. I improved greatly, as did everyone else on the team. Everyone worked hard. We definitely ended the season a better team than when we started.

What is your favorite event and why?

My favorite event is the 100-yd breaststroke because it is short and I am pretty good at it.

Do you plan to continue swimming next year and into college?

I plan on swimming next year definitely. I do not want to swim in college, but if I get a scholarship I will.

When you eventually finish swimming and you look back on your career, what do you want to have accomplished?

I do not really know. I do not have any specific goals set for myself. I just go out and swim my hardest every time and whatever happens, happens.