Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Vito Sgroi

Riverview has established an elite legacy in swimming & diving, and Vito Sgroi is one of the program's latest success stories.

The senior for the five-time boys' team state champions committed to Arizona on Sept. 18. Also active with the Sarasota Sharks, Sgroi specializes in the individual medley, and posted multiple top-10 finishes at the 2024 FHSAA Class 4A state championships.

Last November, the then-junior placed fifth in the boys' 200-meter individual medley with a mark of 1:51.32. He also clocked a 4:37.26 in the 500-meter freestyle to place eighth in the state.

Sgroi's commitment followed senior teammate Jackson DeBruin, who is heading to North Carolina next fall. Younger brother Lupo Sgroi — a sophomore — swims for Riverview as well.

Vito Sgroi is the Sarasota Athlete of the Week.

When and why did you start swimming?

I used to live in Italy, and I played soccer there growing up. I moved here when I was 7, and then I did a sum of different sports — all outside — and I didn't really like sweating all that much. So I picked a sport where I didn't have to sweat, and then swimming came across, and I chose swimming.

What do you enjoy most about getting in the pool?

Being with my friends and getting to race them every day in training. Just training with them every day.

What's been the highlight of your high school season so far?

Just doing our fun little meets with a bunch of friends. Being on relays with my best friends, and just overall, racing everybody.

What's been the most humbling moment of your swimming career?

When I (was 12 years old), I got disqualified three times at one meet. That wasn't a very fun experience, and since then, I've never gotten disqualified for the same thing.

What are your goals for your senior season with Riverview?

There's a record board outside of where we train, and I want to get one of the records on there — particularly the 400 (individual medley). I'm four seconds off, so hopefully I can get it.

Why was Arizona men's swimming & diving the right choice for you?

It was either Arizona and Utah, and I picked Arizona because of the team. The team felt like a family from the second I got there. So, I think that's really what stood out most to me.

What's one quote, if any, that you live your life by?

"Work hard, and you'll see results."

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

Michael Phelps. Just to ask him questions on how he completed what he did.

If you could go anywhere in the world right now, where would you go and why?

New Zealand, because of the beaches. It's super pretty there and you get to surf there — I really want to surf.

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

A phone, so I can call for help.

What's your favorite movie?

Rocky IV.

What's your favorite meal?

Probably spaghetti with clams.

Finish this sentence. Vito Sgroi is...

Energetic.