ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Sam Hoenstine

Foundation Academy senior swimmer Sam Hoenstine has been leading the Lions for two years as the boys team captain. Hoenstine placed second in the 500-meter freestyle and the 200-meter IM during a tri-meet against Master’s Academy and Windermere Prep Thursday, Sept. 7. Hoenstine was part of the 200-meter medley relay that won the event during the meet and swam a leg of the 400-meter freestyle relay that placed second. 

How did you get into swimming?
When I was in ninth grade, I started swimming because my sister, Katie Hoenstine, was leaving to college, and she wanted me to try it. I really liked it, and I started swimming club. I just liked the aspect of being a big team, where everybody practices together; we are doing the same set. I really like that. I swam club for two years, but now I’m doing high school (only). I’m (also) playing other sports as well, (such as) lacrosse, and I’m going to try for the soccer team, as well. 

What do you love most about swimming as a sport? 
I like that it’s physically challenging, but it’s rewarding at the same time. In a race, you are really tired, but when you start winning, you forget about it. I just like the race aspect (of the sport). 

What do you believe swimming has taught you in and out of the pool?
It’s taught me that good sportsmanship and bonding with a team is important. I like that it teaches you discipline. You can have a really hard practice, but as long as you stick it out and you work hard, you will get better. 

What is your favorite thing about your team? 
I like my coach (Chad Sundermeyer). He’s a great coach, and I think he’s a good teacher — not only in the sport but in life, as well.

What do you think about when you are in the middle of a competition? 
I’m just hoping to win, get a better time. 

What is your favorite hobby? 
I like playing soccer on the weekends. 

Who is your favorite athlete? Why? 
In soccer, (my favorite player) is Neymar Jr. I like his play style. 

What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island? 
A soccer ball, a boat and a weight set — dumbbells and stuff to stay in shape. 

Is there a TV series you are binge-watching right now? 
“Lost.” It’s just mystery. They get stuck on an island, and there’s weird stuff happening. 

If you could choose one person you admire to have dinner with, who would it be? 
Probably my grandfather, Don Hoenstine. He’s got a lot of interesting stories, and I could learn a lot.

Looking back, what would you say to your 10-year-old self? 
I would say if I’m interested in doing something, start early and work for it. 

If you could write a letter to your future self, what would you say? 
Have discipline and good work ethic. 

What is your biggest fear?
Ironically, deep dark water.

What is a fun fact about you?
I actually like reggaeton a lot. I like Bad Bunny and Ozuna. 

Who is you favorite superhero? 
I guess Batman, because he doesn’t have that many superpowers — it’s all his inventions. 

If you could have a superpower, what would it be and why? 
I would say teleportation — to travel quicker. 

What are three places you would like to visit? Why? 
Portugal, Chile and Hawaii, again. 

If you could go back in time to a specific period of history, which one would it be and why? 
When Jesus was in His ministry, to talk to Him. 

What color would you say represents your personality? Why?
Probably yellow, it’s kind of bright. It’s an energetic color. 

If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and why? 
Probably a bird; you can fly.