University of Tennessee Athletics
Living the Dream: UT Senior Diver is All Vol
September 20, 2009 | Men's Swimming & Diving
Sept. 20, 2009
By Drew Rutherford, Media Relations
Growing up, Vols' senior diver Michael Muscari knew he would go to UT. His first trip to campus came when he was only four years old and he's been sick with Big Orange fever ever since. Muscari's passion for the swimming and diving program, his experience and leadership made the coaching staff select him as a team captain.
"It means everything to me," Muscari said. "I wasn't aiming to be a captain, I was just doing what the team needed me to do."
Head coach John Trembley cited the evidence of a Volunteer spirit, work ethic and commitment to the program as reasons the coaching staff tabbed Muscari the third captain.
"Every now and then, you have an athlete stand out as a leader," Trembley said. "Michael Muscari has done just that and we have decided as a staff to make him our third team captain."
As the Southeastern Conference's oldest diver, Muscari has gained plenty of knowledge and insight to pass onto younger teammates.
"I've been to SEC (championships) four times and I have a lot I can share with these guys about competing," Muscari said. "But I look up to them, as well. We can learn a lot from each other."
The Morristown, Tenn., native has been diving since childhood and is now fulfilling his dream of diving at UT.
"I grew up a Vol," Muscari said. "I have always wanted to be here and always wanted to be a part of this. I am so thankful for the opportunity. I am truly blessed to be here. I have always wanted to be a Tennessee diver."
Approaching his senior season with some heightened goals in mind, Muscari strives to perform a dive that hasn't been seen before at UT--a back 4.5.
"A back 4.5 is when you are standing backwards on the 10-meter platform and do 4.5 rotations before you hit the water," Muscari said. "Hopefully you hit the water before it hits you."
But the Knoxville Catholic High School graduate isn't just focusing on his own goals, but those of the team as well.
"I want this team to be the absolute best," Muscari said. "We have a young team and are setting up for the next couple of years. That being said, this year is no exception. We want to be the most dominant team in the SEC."
Since his freshman campaign, Muscari has dreamed of being where he is now. The role of team captain is one that he has admired since his arrival on The Hill.
"I remember looking up to the captains when I got here," Muscari said. "They meant a lot to me and I want to help this team how those guys did for me."
Working with co-captains Geoff Sanders and Jordan Walters is an opportunity Muscari looks forward to with respect and excitement.
"Jordan and Geoff are true leaders on this team," Muscari said. "They are leaders not only in the pool but in the classroom and in life."
As Muscari prepares to lead the Big Orange into the 2009-10 season, he prepares for his final year as a Tennessee Volunteer. He will look to his own experience, as well as look to his teammates for motivation and support and undoubtedly give his all for Tennessee.
Senior co-captain Michael Muscari is truly living his dream.
Players Mentioned
