How Would You Handle A DQ In Your Last Race Ever?

Photo Courtesy: Marisa Savegnago

By Brie Hines, Swimming World College Intern

Behind the blocks, you press your goggles into your eyes for the last time, swing your arms and take a deep breath. The moment in the water is unreal; how can you possibly conclude what feels like a lifetime of swimming in one final race?

The years spent waking up at the crack of dawn only to jump into the ice cold water, attempting to brush chlorine-poisoned hair, and the constant soreness. The realization becomes, how can I create the perfect ending, sum up a career and make all of my work worth it? The motivation to go out with a bang and leave the pool with no regrets is so desirable it can create a sickness in anxiety.

John Mordach, recently graduated captain and fearless leader of the Univeristy of Illinois at Chicago swimming and diving team is coming to terms with his newfound title of “swammer,” reflecting on his journey which ended in February.

From Hobby to Lifestyle

At the young age of six and a speedo size 22, Mordach began his career as a swimmer on the Still Water Stars Swim Team. What began as a fun hobby, a way to channel his lively energy transitioned into a time-consuming focus; something Mordach could truly dedicate himself to. With his competitive drive and love for the water, he decided to further his career and pursue college swimming.

“I came into the best team on Earth,” he said reflecting on his transition to UIC’s swim team. “They saw me for who I was and pushed me past my limits.”

It came as no surprise that his determination and love for the team led him to become captain his senior year. With the passing of the captain’s torch, Mordach could inspire the team that so greatly inspired him.

“I wanted to bring the team spirit of family and brotherhood, so that we would be able to rely on each other, motivate each other and push each other,” Mordach said.

Like stars aligning, a new coaching staff was hired that would allow Mordach to shine even brighter. Coaches Tim Loeffler and Mike Tubb joined UIC with the intentions to instill a new culture, making Mordach’s position as captain an even greater responsibility.

“I wanted to come in and give this team the opportunities and tools to be successful for years to come. When John saw the opportunity to make changes, he jumped at the chance to make the team successful,” head coach Tim Loeffler stated.

Mordach embodies the true meaning of “putting the team on your back.”

Team, Team, Team

My ability to direct the interview towards him and his story was diminished by the enthusiasm he held talking about the team.

Throughout the season, Mordach was involved in all of the swimmers’ training and school life. He was respected by the entire team and had an active voice in practice, influencing a culture of community. With his mind set on strengthening the team, he stayed persistent in holding everyone accountable in their work ethic and responsibilities.

As the season started to come to a close, Mordach’s expectations for Horizon League Championships were generally team-oriented.

“I knew I had done the work so I didn’t have many personal goals, but I wanted the team to make top three,” Mordach said.

As the championships began, Mordach achieved personal bests race after race. Though they weren’t considered the perfection that is strived for, he stayed optimistic for himself and the team. Each event he took careful preparation with his warm-up, hydration, and focus- positive that he was doing everything he could to have the perfect race.

The Final Event

Photo Courtesy: Marisa Savegnago

As his biggest event, the 400 IM was approaching, he laid out his strategy, finalizing every detail of his last swim.

“I swam the race exactly as I planned,” Mordach said.

But there is no preparation for the disappointment that comes with the approach of the man in the white shirt announcing your disqualification for the simple fail of a two-hand touch; something little Mordach learned on his first couple days as a Still Water Star.

“I was furious,” Mordach said, reflecting on his race. “I was so exhausted from the swim. I broke my goggles, vented and wasn’t a great captain for a little while before coming back to be with the team.”

Emotions were high for Mordach and his coaches.

“When you see a senior who goes all in, you want the very best for them; not just their times but experience over all and knowing he gave everything he had,” Loeffler said.

While the weekend was far from perfect and the races seemed disappointing, Mordach insists he wouldn’t change a thing.

“It was the most fun I’ve ever had at a conference meet,” he said. “It’s how the cards were dealt, but I wouldn’t change anything.”

Perceiving Success

The “final event” can never represent the years of hard work, the blood and sweat and tears. In the eyes of a dedicated swimmer, perfection is impossible, and it only seems natural to reflect on the entire journey rather than the final minutes.

John Mordach will never be remembered for his failed two-hand touch, but instead his ability to amp up his team when it was a necessity. He will be remembered for his smiles and positivity. Lastly, he will be remembered by his role in beginning a new era for UIC and the undeniable love he held for his team.

“I hope I was able to give some perspective to the team, show them that you should never be afraid to say how you feel and be who you are,” Mordach said.

Up and coming captains Shaun Seuschek and Nick Kowaleski believe Mordach was the perfect example of a great team captain and are excited to follow in his footsteps.

“He taught me that it’s important to believe the direction you’re going is a positive direction and your team is going to follow you,” Seuschek said.

While many swammers embrace their achievements and bask in their newly lavish lifestyle of sleeping in and healing goggle marks, Mordach swears swimming will always be a part of his life. He plans to stick around on UIC’s pool deck and be a volunteer coach.

“I want him to work with the younger athletes and show them what it means to be a part of this team,” Loeffler said. ”John is the perfect example of overcoming obstacles. He has proven that while things may not go the way you want them to, if you work hard and stay driven amazing things will happen.”

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