Jan. 5, 2005
This is the fourth in a series that spotlights the 10 freshmen on Notre Dame’s 2004-05 roster. This edition features distance freestyler Jay Vanden Berg, who ranks among the top five in the BIG EAST Conference – and second on the Irish – in each of the three longest races on the program. He is second behind teammate Patrick Davis among league swimmers in the 1,000 free (season-best 9:26.39), as well as third in the 1,650 (15:43.38), and fifth in the 500 free (4:31.98). Vanden Berg leads Notre Dame freshmen in points scored (163.75), has four race victories in individual action to his credit, and is ranked 46th in Division I in the mile.
Full Name – Jay Vanden Berg
Hometown – Holland, Michigan
Is your hometown known for anything noteworthy? – I used to live in Detroit, so I guess Eminem.
High School and Club teams – Oakland Live Y’ers
Family Members – Father: Jack, Mother: Colleen, Sisters: Erika, Hope, Betsy, Erin
Anticipated Major – Finance and History
What has been most difficult thing to adjust to in college? – I don’t like doing my own Laundry
What is your favorite thing about Notre Dame? – The atmosphere
Nicknames – Ebola
What were your high school’s nickname and colors – Eagles, blue and gold
Who has influenced you most as a swimmer – My high school coach Jeff Cooper
What made you stick with swimming over the years – All of my sisters swam, and I started when I was really young. I always felt like I would be wasting all the time I put into it if I quit.
Favorite swimmer – Grant Hackett
Favorite swimming moment – Achieving my senior national cut at sectionals
Rituals before a meet – Watching the movie Without Limits
Favorite “pump up” song – “Go To Sleep” by Eminem
Describe yourself in the pool and out – In the pool I consider myself aggressive, because I hate to lose. Outside of the pool I would consider myself independent, because I often find myself annoyed at people’s stupidity.
What has surprised you most about Ireland – The amount of rain surprises me. If the sun comes out, it won’t be for long.
Favorite food – Taco Salad
Favorite TV show – Family Guy
Favorite actor – Will Farrell
Best movie you’ve seen recently – Anchorman
Best book you’ve read recently – This Present Darkness by Frank Peretti