All-star spotlight Q&A with York Suburban swimmer Carson Gross

Carson Gross is not shy. Anyone who has spent time around the York Suburban girls' swimming team knows that conversation, even self-deprecating humor, is a strong suit for Gross.

In fact, the junior will admit to being downright clumsy, saying she lacks coordination.

Yet, one place Gross isn't a klutz is the pool. A versatile swimmer who posted some of the league's top times in multiple events, she is also a tremendous competitor.

At the recent PIAA meet, Gross showed that when she led the 200 freestyle race early, fell behind, then surged ahead near the wall to win the YAIAA's only state swimming championship this season.

For that, she was named GameTimePA.com's Girls' Swimmer of the Year and recently sat down for a Q&A.

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Why your sport?

I don't remember because I started when I was 4. I know when I started, I loved it and loved it ever since.

Love it as much as it seems?

There's some days, some practices I would rather be other places, ultimately I do love the sport.

Being a swimming star, what would you change about your sport?

As much as I don't like going in four or five mornings a week, and Saturdays, I wouldn't change anything.

Do you have any superstitions on game day?

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Not really. Usually do same general stretches and stuff, but everyone does that.

What was your favorite moment of the season?

My gold medal was obviously up there because I wasn't expecting it at all. Winning the team (YAIAA) title was big, it was the first time since I was in high school. Breaking the school record in the 200 free at districts was cool.

Is the water ever too cold?

Our water usually isn't. A lot of times at other schools, it's a lot colder. I don't mind ours. That's not one of my biggest complaints.

During early morning practice, ever think you are nuts from being a swimmer?

Definitely, all the time, and people tell me I am all the time, too. I agree with it most of the time, but it's worth it in the end.

What are you most proud of?

The fact I can swim the 50 free, or longer distances. I take pride in that. I know a lot of people that are amazing at the 50 or the 200, but don't do both.

Who is the craziest of your teammates?

Megan Hunt. She is crazy.

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Do the years seem to go by quicker the older you get?

Yeah, definitely. My freshman year it felt like that season went by fast, but compared to last year and this year it was nothing.

What did you think the moment you saw you won state gold?

I could not believe it. I was in Lane 7 and couldn't see anyone that was close to me. I touched the wall, looked up at the board and was amazed.

What's your favorite "Coach (Craig) Brennan"-ism?

He uses a lot of (former Suburban coach Dick) Guyer quotes, and those are motivation for the rest of the team. He will say things that are supposed to be motivational, but they are funny.

If your sport wasn't offered, what sport would you play?

I played soccer my freshman year, I might still be doing that.

What sport are you terrible at?

Basketball, softball, everything. It's coordination ... I am so clumsy. I've often been told not to do anything on land.

Being a star athlete, you never eat junk food ... right?

I eat junk food all the time and I get yelled at all the time for eating junk food all the time. My favorite? Probably ice cream.

What is your favorite activity out of the pool?

I do like shopping, but I don't like spending money.

Subject in school?

Depends on the year, but probably math overall.

If you had a day all to yourself with no responsibilities, what would you do?

Go to the beach. I love Sea Isle City, it's quieter than other beaches, everyone is really nice.

Are you a clean or messy bedroom person?

Depends on the day. Right now it's messy. It's not like clothes messy, but it's organized. And I know where everything is, and I can walk through the room.

What is the one thing you do that drives your mom or dad crazy?

I do a lot of things that drive them crazy. Probably not putting away my clothes. Or if dishes are there, I just pile mine on top.