Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Bogdan Zverev

The Sailors have set a course for the FHSAA Class 4A boys' swimming and diving state championship. Seeking its fifth title in six years, Sarasota will compete for the crown Nov. 14 at Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training in Ocala. 

Bogdan Zverev helped ensure the team's return to the statewide stage. The senior and Alabama commit won four events at the Class 4A-Region 3 meet, including individual golds in the 200-yard individual medley (1:48.39) and 100-yard butterfly (48.84). Alongside his teammates, he also earned first place in the 200-yard freestyle relay (21.19) and 200-yard medley relay (22.32). Zverev is the Sarasota Athlete of the Week.

When and why did you start swimming?

I started swimming when I was 8 (years old) in Oregon, because my parents just wanted me to do a sport, and they decided that swimming was the best option. I tried doing karate for a week, but then I ended up not doing it because I hated it. I also used to do break dancing when I was 6 for two years before I started swimming. I've been here in Sarasota since I was 10.

What do you enjoy about this sport on any given day?

It's very nice that I don't sweat. I don't feel like I'm sweating when I'm swimming, which is a really big bonus. And I just feel like I'm free in the water. I just move freely through it, and it's fun to do.

What's been the highlight of your career so far?

It wasn't during high school (season), but over the summer, I got my first three Olympic trial cuts, which was really good for me. I'm excited to see what happens next.

What were your goals entering your senior season with Sarasota?

I didn't really set any goals, but in general, I just wanted to set some new best times, make the last year count and show what I've got.

How are you focusing in practice to prepare for top competition at states?

I'm working on (butterfly) right now, because my best event is the (200-yard butterfly) and some (individual medley). So we're working on under-waters butterfly. I needed to improve my freestyle a little more, so we're working on my stroke count for that. I tend to swim really smooth and spread out, so we're trying to work on that, too.

Why was Alabama the perfect next step for you in your career?

It was the only college visit that I actually went to. I was supposed to go to a bunch of other schools, but that was the first one I went to, and the people there were the nicest people I've ever talked to. The coaches were also the best coaches I've talked to — over the phone and in person. It was just so wonderful. The campus is great, and they have everything I was looking for. So I decided, 'Why waste any more time looking at other places when I know I have everything I wanted over here?' I can really succeed at Alabama.

When you're not swimming, how do you like to spend your free time?

I usually bake. I post some of my stuff on Instagram. And I sew, I knit, I crochet. I made a sweater before, but I haven't really done a big project like that in a while. I like working with my hands and doing stuff.

What's the most delicious food you've baked?

That's difficult to say. I think the sourdough bread — it's so much better than the ones you can buy at the store. I don't know how to describe it, it was just delicious.

What's a piece of wisdom you've carried with you through life?

To never give up, and to believe in yourself. If you really want to do something, and you try, then you will eventually end up achieving your goals and doing whatever it is you want to do.

If you could meet any professional athlete, who would you meet and why?

I've met (four-time Olympic medalist) Summer McIntosh. I've swam with her before.

If you could go anywhere right now for a dream vacation, where would you go and why?

I'd want to go to France, because I love the French cuisine. I'd just want to visit France sometime and experience some European country again.

If you were stuck on a desert island with only one item to survive with, what would you bring and why?

I'd bring a box of matches to start a fire.

What's your favorite meal?

There's so many good things to choose from. It really depends on the day, but I really like sushi and pizza. Those are so customizable — you can have something different every day and not get tired of it.

What's your favorite music?

I love Lady Gaga. I listen to her every day before I swim at practice (and) before my swim meets. She just gets me going every time. I went to her concert in August and it was the best experience I've ever had. It was wonderful.

Finish this sentence. Bogdan Zverev is...

Vibrant.