Thomas Heilman Looking at World Champs Experience As Valuable Tool On Road to Paris (Video Interview)
An argument can be made that Thomas Heilman rates as the premier age-group standout from the United States since Michael Phelps emerged on the scene in the early 2000s. Heilman has shredded the age-group record book and was a member of the American squad at last summer’s World Championships in Fukuoka.
During his World Champs debut, Heilman tied for fourth in the 200-meter butterfly, finishing just off the podium. His time of 1:53.82, which was equaled by fellow teen Ilya Kharun of Canada, established a National Age Group (NAG) record and served as proof that Heilman is ready to battle with the best in the sport.
At the recent Golden Goggle Awards in Los Angeles, Heilman was nominated as Breakout Swimmer of the Year. The standout youngster also recently committed to compete collegiately for the University of Virginia, where he’ll be part of a stellar recruiting class.
Ahead of the Golden Goggle Awards, Heilman spoke with Swimming World about the advantage of having his recruitment completed and how his experience from Fukuoka will be helpful in pursuit of a berth to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.