Name: Ethan Bridges
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 2002
Events: 100 Fly, 200 Fly, 200 IM, 400 IM
Degree: Rec Therapy, B.S., Occupational Therapy M.S.
Profession: Rehab Specialty Lead (OT)
Current residence: Atlanta, GA
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program?
So many great memories, from the suites freshman year to hosting parties at the Cardinal house Junior and Senior years. Of course my favorite memory is winning our first ever CAA title my senior year. As a Team Captain my Jr and Sr seasons, a lot of time and effort went into recruiting and finding guys that would make our team better. Once we got the right mix of guys, we made it our mission to win the whole thing and start a new trend of winning.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
I have always loved the discipline that swimming builds into your personal character. I am still an early morning riser and love to get a workout done first thing. I love to challenge myself as a husband and father in everyday situations and I feel like the culture of UNCW swim helped mold that drive.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck?
After UNCW, I went to grad school in Northern VA to continue my schooling. My roommate at UNCW, Chris Davis, is from Atlanta and my goal was to always get back to the Atlanta area. Shortly after moving to Atlanta in 2006, I met my wife and the rest is history.
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW? P.T.s Grille was the spot for food. And of course, the beach itself. I loved meeting up with other guys from the team to hang out on Sundays.
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
“It’s a great day to be a Seahawk” was always the mantra. In regards to cheering, we used the cowbell before each meet. Shortly before my senior season, I pitched the idea of using a cheer from Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints. “What time is it? Game Time” apparently this has grown and morphed into other cheers over the years but it all started there.
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
For current swimmers, work as hard as you can now because you won’t get another shot at it later. Get the extra sleep, eat the clean meal and fuel your fire towards your goals. These years go by quickly. For recent graduates, allow the routine and discipline of your swimming days to advance your life in a positive way. The hard work ethic you built through difficult workouts can actually make things easier for you down the road if the same principles are applied.