Put Me In, Coach!

Although Brendan is looking for a year in communications, he won't be too busy to become a coach... at least for a day. Once again this summer, Brendan will be coaching at Longhorn Swim Camp at one of the afternoon stroke clinics during each of the 6 sessions (along with Ian Crocker and Neil Walker).

Houston, We Have A Problem

Looks like USA Swimming is getting into the spooky spirit of Halloween also - they've posted their own costume manipulations of various swimmers... including Brendan as an astronaut.



Come on y'all- you can do better than this! Send in your entries...

Tracksuits Are SO Hot!

What's better than a picture of Brendan in his official USA Swimming gear? A picture of Brendan in his official USA Swimming gear surrounded by tons of other swimmers also in their official USA Swimming gear! Thanks to USA Swimming for posting the official team photo of the Short Course Worlds team- to see the full-sized picture, visit the title link.

Keep Those Entries Coming!

I've gotten some hilarious entries for the Halloween contest (including the entry from lala below) - keep 'em coming! To see all the entries received so far, head on over to texas-trio.com.

More on the Golden Goggles Awards

In addition to disclosing a superstar lineup of former swimmers as presenters (including Matt Biondi, Pablo Morales, John Naber, Mark Spitz, Tracy (Caulkins) Stockwell, Donna deVarona, Janet Evans, Mary T. (Meagher) Plant, Debbie Meyer, Summer Sanders and Dara Torres), USA Swimming has now confirmed that the ENTIRE 2004 USA Olympic Swimming Team will be in attendance. One can only assume this means we will be treated to photos of Brendan in a tux!

My Reign of Terror Begins...

Hello from Austin, Texas! Home of the Texas Longhorns, the Live Music Capital of the World, and stomping ground for B-money and his band of Texas brethren. You might know me from Texas Trio, the website I created for Brendan, Ian and Aaron. Michelle's become a buddy of mine over the last few months, and I'm more than happy to help out around here while she's gone.

While the cat's away the mice will play... let's see what kind of mischief and mayhem we can get into while she's gone!

FIRST UP: a little cross-promotional challenge to BHO and T-T readers. Everyone knows Halloween is coming up this weekend. I want to see what costume you'd like to see Brendan don (or all 3 Trio members as a set), in picture format. Create a picture of Brendan (or the Trio) in costume. And be funny!

The best submissions will be featured both here AND at texas-trio.com - you can include other swimmers if you like, but nothing vulgar or cruel, please. However, sarcasm and good-natured ribbing are not only allowed but are encouraged. Fire up Photoshop or PaintShopPro, and get to work! Send all submissions to: admin at texas-trio dot com.

Results of Official Song Poll

Okay, officially the results were:

Tangerine Speedo - Caviar 8% 4
Deepest, Bluest - LL Cool J 6% 3
Night Swimming - REM 41% 21
Stroke Me - Billy Squier 41% 21
Swimming Song - Loudon Wainwright III 4% 2

BUT...anyone who voted for anything other than The Stroke by Billy Squier was WRONG and therefore your vote was invalidated and thrown out. So wheeee Billy won in a landslide, as it should be.

(Some of you are really going to have to do better on the next poll. ;)

Please Welcome Texas-Gal

She's being a total rockstar and helping me out this week by taking over the Brendan Blog. Some of you may already know her as the owner and Admin of OlympicGods.com and Texas-Trio.com, two of my favorite places on the internet. I've had a death in my family and will be out of town through the 1st of November but may check in occasionally if I can get some wireless coverage, and of course I'll be checking my email as often as I can. Behave for the new Admin kiddies. (No drinking and posting lala ;)

I just love it when fans send me pictures...

It's like Christmas morning. Thanks to Kate (long straight hair), her friend Sarah (curly hair) and Sarah's boyfriend Joey (should be obvious which one he is) for not only thinking on their feet at Worlds and snapping some pictures of the Texas Trio, but more importantly scanning those pictures and sending them to me! Click images to see larger versions.





And special thanks to Aaron for that hair. Made my day to see that.

It's not 12 months of Brendan, but it's a step in the right direction

I've already ordered mine even though I'm sure it's not going to be in the "Aussie Cheesecake" style that we'd all prefer. (Appears it's just pictures of swimmers, you know, swimming.) But if they sell enough of them this year maybe we can talk them into something a little more spectacular for 2006 that better highlights the Men's team (from Texas).

John Lohn's a SupaSta!

He sent me his latest on Brendan's visit to Haverford. Wheee! Thanks John.

By JOHN LOHN

jlohn@delcotimes.com

HAVERFORD - He was mobbed by autograph seekers and honored through a video presentation. There was plenty of applause, and a handful of whistles from the females in the audience.

In true rock-star fashion, Brendan Hansen returned to his alma mater Friday morning, just the beginning of a red-carpet day for the Olympic triple-medalist.

It's been two months since Hansen ventured to Athens and exited the 28th Olympiad with a rainbow of medals. His life has been a whirlwind during the ensuing days, packed with photo shoots, speaking engagements and, of course, swimming.

Yet Hansen found time this week to give back, a characteristic that has defined him over the years, as much as the talent that has made him the globe’s fastest breaststroker.

So, at 9 a.m., Hansen entered the main lobby at Haverford High ready to roll. He shook some hands, doled out some hugs and prepared himself for a lengthy day that began with a 45-minute ceremony in the auditorium.

"You come back because you want (the students) to realize that I was in the same place they are not too long ago," said Hansen, a 2000 graduate. "I was just a regular guy, but if you work hard enough you can accomplish your dreams."

Hansen's agenda was loaded. Following his morning stint at Haverford High, he shuffled over to Haverford Middle School for a similar appearance. At night, he was in the high-school cafeteria, scribbling his John Hancock for a two-hour period. For a finale, the 23-year-old was honored at halftime of the Radnor-Haverford football game.

On a day when Hansen provided motivation and fulfilled the dreams of many youngsters with an autograph or handshake, the Havertown community proved something: It loves its Olympic champion.

"He’s such an inspiration," said Nicholas Rotoli, the principal at Haverford High. "When he was in the halls as a student, you knew he was an unbelievable athlete. But he never got an attitude. He was just a Havertown kid, a gentle and humble person."

The morning kicked off with a video presentation recapping the events of the summer, when Hansen rocketed to the top of the swimming world as the fastest man in the history of the 100- and 200-meter breaststrokes.

As Hansen stood to the right of the movie screen, he watched footage of a glorious two-month stretch. There were highlights of his record-breaking swims in Long Beach, Calif., site of the United States Olympic Trials.

There was tape of his efforts in Athens, where he claimed silver (100 breast) and bronze (200 breast) in his individual forays and gold as a member of the American 400-meter medley relay. The presentation opened with a high-school yearbook photo.

Scattered throughout the video were oohs and ahs, applause and a general appreciation for what Hansen accomplished over the summer. Then, it was time for the University of Texas product to take the microphone.

"It's great to see someone like that," said Kyle Wertman, a member of the Haverford football team. "Coming from a little high school, it says a lot. You would always see him in the paper. We were all rooting for him. It shows you have a chance to accomplish anything."

Hansen spoke for roughly 20 minutes, following his speech with a question-and-answer session that ran the gamut from serious to playful. For every "How much do you train?," there was "Do you have a girlfriend?"

Ultimately, Hansen's message stood out. By now, his story is familiar. He was the 18-year-old who narrowly missed the 2000 Olympic Team, but rebounded four years later, en route to becoming the first Delco athlete to win three medals in a single Olympics.

These days, he's a professional athlete, sponsored by Nike and focused on the future, including a trip to Beijing for the next Olympiad. Hansen used his tale as motivation for the assembly of 11th and 12th graders.

"In 2000, I was sitting on the pool deck and asked myself, ‘What am I going to do?’" he said. "The times when things don't go your way and you fail, that’s when you find out who you are.

"Never limit or put boundaries on yourself. And never let someone tell you that you can’t do something. Proving them wrong is the best high. You have to believe in yourself. You can't win every day or every race. I came away from the Olympics wanting more and I’m working for 2008. When things don't go your way, let it fire you up."

Two weeks removed from capturing four titles at the World Short-Course Swimming Championships in Indianapolis, a feat unmatched by another male, Hansen has significantly slowed his training schedule. He's in the pool about twice a week and won’t return to Austin, Texas, until the end of the month, just in time to make settlement on a new home.

In the meantime, Hansen has continued to inspire. In the water, he's as good as it gets. As his appearances Friday will attest, he's darn good on land, too.

Brendan back in Havertown

He'll be speaking to students at Haverford Middle School and Haverford High School tomorrow and be recognized during half-time at the football game tomorrow night. Anyone live nearby and want to go take some pictures?

It ain't easy being a Rockstar

Mailing Address Clarification

For all those who have emailed me wanting clarification on where to write for an autographed photo of Brendan....remember to send a self addressed, stamped envelope and the picture you want signed to...

The University of Texas at Austin

Brendan Hansen

c/o Lee and Joe Jamail Texas Swimming Center

1 University Station D4000

Austin, Texas 78712-0363

(Thanks Maria for finding the address!)

NEW! Texas Trio Website

Those of you visiting the Links page will notice something new...
From the same person who brought you OlympicGods.com there is a new website to indulge your Longhorn love. Thanks to Texas-Gal for providing a great new resource for fans of Aar-Bear, SloRyd and B-Money (B-Dog, B-Mine, Tiger or Pumpkin for some ;). As if we needed another reason to spend waaay too much time on the internet.

A Look at the Golden Goggles Awards

I don't know if Brendan will be there, but I'm hopeful there will be pictures. Somewhere.

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO, October 18. USA Swimming is making a new venture into marketing our sport with an ambitious foray into the world of high end recognitions events.

The Golden Goggles Awards are coming in less than a month to the publicity capital of the world, New York City.

We are eager to welcome the first of what will hopefully be a long term annual event with the clout to draw a television audience to see us recognize our best in an entertaining, fun and first class fashion. USA Swimming has been previewing this event for a few weeks and just issued a description of the known participants and award categories.

----------------------------------------

With Short Course Worlds over, athletes and members of the world of swimming have some down time to kick their feet up and relax. That is, until the Golden Goggles Awards next month. November 15 will mark the inaugural awards at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York. Swimming legends will join celebrities to celebrate this year’s swimming accomplishments and raise money for the USA Swimming Foundation. USA Swimming has a great emcee lined up, as well as some truly unforgettable legends in the sport.

The Emcee

Bob Costas will be emcee of the inaugural Golden Goggles Awards, to be held November 15. Winner of 16 Emmy Awards, Costas is considered one of the most respected and honored broadcasters of his generation.

The 2004 Athens Games were Costas’ sixth with NBC. Costas won Emmy Awards for his work as primetime host from Barcelona, Atlanta, Sydney and, most recently, Salt Lake City for the 2002 Winter Games.

Costas has also provided opening commentary for the U.S. Open and Visa Triple Crown, among others. Costas has received Sportscaster of the Year by the National Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association eight times. Costas has won acclaim since 2001 as host of HBO’s weekly show “On The Record” and “Inside the NFL”.

The Awards

The Coach of the Year award will be given to the coach whose athlete(s) performed at the highest level throughout the year with an emphasis on Olympic achievement. The winner will be determined out of a pool of three finalists through voting by an expert panel.

Relay Performance of the Year will be given to the best team relay performance, male or female. Relays considered must be a final with emphasis given on Olympic achievement. The winner will be determined out of a pool of three finalists through voting by an expert panel.

The Legend
Four-time gold medalist John Naber will be among the presenters of the night’s awards. Naber won his four golds along with a silver medal in the 1976 Olympic Games and broke four world records in the process. His gold medals were in the 100m back, 200m back, 800m free relay and the 400m medley relay. In 1976 he was named Male Swimmer of the Year and Southern California Athlete of the Year. Naber earned 17 U.S. National backstroke titles and set 12 American backstroke records during his career. In 1977 he received the Sullivan Award and the trophy of the International Committee for Fair Play. It was the first time an American swimmer was honored with the award.

Naber has kept ties to the Olympics, serving on the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games Organizing Committee. Today he works as a commentator for ABC Sports. He has served as play-by-play host for thirty different Olympic sports. Naber is also president of U.S. Olympians, an association of over 6,000 American Olympic alumni, and president of "Naber & Associates, Inc." a consulting firm that specializes in sports-related marketing.

He has written two books, "Awaken the Olympian Within... Stories from America's Greatest Olympic Motivators" and "Eureka! How Innovation Changes the Olympic Games (and Everything Else)”.

2004 Olympic Team wallpapers available from USOC website

Too much Phelps and Beard, not enough Longhorn.

Brendan featured in October-December 2004 Swimming Technique Magazine

I'm going to check my local bookstores, but I don't think any of them carry this magazine. I'll post more when I get my hands on one. For those who'd like to purchase a copy - you can do so directly on the website linked above.

Fastest in History
In his rise to the top of the breaststroke, world record holder Brendan Hansen has nailed down a near-perfect routine: he busts it in the pool, he goes hard in the weight room, and, mentally, he pushes himself to the max, continually drawing on his desire to better himself.
By John Lohn

New Article from Daily Times

Heres one early vote for Haverfords Brendan Hansen for Daily Times Sports Figure of the Year.

Chester graduate Jameer Nelson is the favorite and a worthy candidate. He won every national Player of the Year award but one and was a first-round NBA draft pick. And there is not a finer young man on the planet.

But it's tough to beat three Olympic medals, including one gold, five world records and four gold medals in the Short Course World Championships. Hansen was named the Outstanding Male Swimmer at the Short Course World Championships.

Let the debate begin.

Brendan Hansen Fan Q&A!

What better way to kick off the News Blog than with a Fan Q&A. Thanks to everyone who submitted questions, but most especially to Brendan for answering ALL of them so quickly. Y'all enjoy and leave a comment or two.

Questions from Michelle in Madison, AL

When and where is your next competition?
My next competition is Spring nationals in April and I am not sure where they are yet but it's the selection meet for Worlds that summer which I would really like to be at. So I get another shot at the Japanese breastroker.

Do you have any pets? Are you a cat or a dog person?
I have a dog, his name is jack and he is a black lab (2 years old). I like all animals but if I had to choose I would say I am a dog person.

Questions from Sarah in Cambridge, UK

Yo Brendan - What type of girls do you go for?
They have to be funny and be up for anything. Never liked the girly girls. Oh, and No drama queens please.

Did you hang out with any of the British swimmers in Athens?
No

Questions from Janine in San Francisco

Congratulations on all your accomplishments Brendan! Your motivation and determination are really inspiring. I enjoyed watching you in Athens and I'll be rooting for you at Worlds from across the country in San Francisco. Good luck with everything and please keep us updated!

Do you hang out often with Aaron and Ian? What are some things you guys like to do when you have free time away from the pool? Any crazy stories you can share?
Yeah, Ian and Aaron and I hang out a lot. Austin, TX is a great place and there is always something going on. We go see live music, or we go to the lake or go camping. I can tell you that there are crazy stories but that wouldn't be fair to Ian and Aaron..haha

What advice/encouragement would you give to a college senior who is struggling to find what career path is right for her?
All I can say is do something that you are excited about and not something you are content with or else you will be miserable. Do something that challenges you and you can make goals for cause its easy then to stay focused.

What are three things you can't live without? (or: If your house was burning down, and you only had one minute to grab what you can, what would you get?)
Hmmmmmmm....tough question. I would have to say there is nothing in my house right now that I couldn't live without. It's your typical college apartment. I would grab my medals for sure though.

Do you have any special rituals you do right before you swim a race?
I always reach down, move the water around with my hand and put some water in my mouth then spit it out. I'm not sure why, I just have always done it.

What is your most embarrassing moment?
Even now I have my goggles fall off all the time. It sucks when it happens and you'd think I would learn.

What do you like to watch on TV?
I like the Discovery Channel but most of the time I watch sports and network tv shows like the OC and That 70's show.

Do you think you personally can change the sport of swimming?
I sure hope so. I think with the guys we have on the team now we can definitely make swimming more popular. I think we have even after the olympics.

Who are some people you look up to and why?
My family because they support me through everything and are the most amazing people I know. They care more about others than they do themselves. You don't see that much these days.

What are your worst fears?
I am fearless.....hahah. Seriously, not a big spider fan.

Since it's going to be that time of the year again soon, I was wondering, do you have a favorite Halloween costume that you've worn or a favorite Halloween memory? How old were you?
I was a naked guy in a barrel once. I just wore a wooden barrel around the party. the only thing is it sucked when I had to go to the bathroom, other than that everyone thought it was great.

Do you still believe in Santa Claus?
Nope but my mom will still give me presents that say from Santa on them.

From Maria in South Carolina

I would like to know what you would think if the swimming competitions would have to "go to the video" to decide who actually won the event? Case in point, the Olympics where the Japanese swimmer did the illegal dolphin kick and the judge didn't catch it but it was seen on video after the race. They do this in football I think. Anyway, would you support such a thing or do you think that the sport should remain a 'judgment call'?
Lets go to video. I am a big fan of it.

Have you ever cramped up while in the middle of the pool?
Nope, not in competition.

What do you think about the cameras being almost 2 inches from your face/rear?? I know they (cameramen) do that with everybody but still......has it ever gotten on your nerves and have you ever felt like pushing them into the pool or something??
I just always block them out and sometimes when I do see them I get fired up. Cause you feel important and you feel like the more people watching you the more excited you get for a race.

Questions from Nelle in New Jersey

First of all congrats to you on your olympic medals.
One question: What kind of music do you listen to and do you play any instruments?
I have tried in the past to play instruments but I can't for the life of me. But I like all kinds of music. Seriously, everything.

Questions from a true fan, Stephanie in Ossining, New York

hey brendan,
my name is stephanie and i just wanted to let u know how awesome u are. recently i have been trying to get back into swimming and if it wasn't for you and a few other USA swimmers i would have gaven up already. You guys truly motivate me you all inspire me in your own ways. Also ive been having alot of family problems lately and watching you all swim just makes me feel soo better!!my question for you is how was the olympic experience and what can we expect in the future from you? thanks alot hope all is well.
The olympic experience is an amazing experience. When you are actually there you don't feel like you are at the olympics. Its kinda weird. It just feels like another meet. But when you come home everyone has been watching you and all the sudden everyone is congratulating you and its just weird that everyone knows you. I think the only difference for me between the olympics and another meet is the medals mean so much more and a lot more people in the US watch. Other than that its just another day at the office.

Questions from Lena in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Swimming has gotten increasingly competitive in the past 15-20 years and sometimes the training can be overwhelming. Are there times when you resent having devoted all this time to swimming? Do you feel like it might take time out of other things you wanted to do? And finally, do you still enjoy it like the first day?
I still love it like the first day but there are days when you really don't want be there and it's tough to get through the workout. But you have to have a good balance in your life between swimming and other things. If you don't have that balance then you are going to have trouble when the training gets tough. Make sure you do other things than just swimming. Its important to your success.

Question from Greenie

My question is what great swimmer of the past would you have loved to race against? Any distance, any stroke.
I would love to swim against Mark Spitz because I know he was good in his time, but I don't think he can compete with us now.

Question from Luci, Single and Legal

Hey Brendan! My name is Luci and I'm a really big fan of yours! I was just wondering if you had a girlfriend.
hahah I am currently single. I am so busy right now that I can't find time to have a relationship. Or at least that is my excuse.

Question from Teri in New Jersey

Terrell Owens: Philadelphia Eagles savior or Antichrist?
You know what I like about TO he may talk a lot but the man backs it up every Sunday. Savior, he gives McNabb confidence.

Question from the Queen of the Universe and All that She Surveys (aka Laura in New Orleans)

Hello Brendan,
If you could have the Queer Eye for the Straight Guy team make over one aspect of your life, what would it be and why?
I have never seen the show so I have no idea what I would change.

Question from Erin in Missouri

Brendan,
Congratulations on your Olympic Medals! How did you first get involved in swimming? What is some advice you'd give to young swimmers? Thank you so much!
I swam on a summer league team and really enjoyed it. My parents got me involved because they just wanted me to know how to swim. I think the best advice you can give a young swimmer is to never limit yourself. Always believe in yourself and not to be very serious about swimming til you get older because you don't want to burn out at a young age.

Questions from Allison in North Carolina

Congratulations on winning gold in all the Breaststroke events and for receiving the Most Outstanding Male Swimmer Award!

Yes or No, Have you ever/Has it ever happened to you? (If yes, how long ago?)

1.Suddenly stopped swimming in the middle of a race because you got too tired? No

2. Swimsuit fell down when diving into a pool? Yes, when I was 12. Good old paper suits.

3. Thrown up in a pool right after or while you were swimming? Nope

4.Played a practical joke on someone or/and has someone played one on you during a swim practice? If yes, what was the best one?
Yes put Vaseline or ben gay in someone's suits. You will get a facial reaction that lasts a lifetime.

5. Had sex in a pool? haha no comment

6. Started accidentally swimming the wrong stroke in a meet? Yeah when I was 7 I didn't know the difference between backstroke or breastroke so my parents would be on the side of the pool and they would act out the stroke so I would know before the start. The things parents will do.

7. Kicked someone accidentally in the lane next to you while swimming? No, but I did a turn once and came up in the wrong lane.

8. What's the most embarrassing thing that's ever happened to you while swimming? Came up in the wrong lane.

9.What is the happiest and most proud moment of your swimming areer so far?
Trials when I broke the WR and made the Olympic team

10. I would like to know if you are a Christian? Also, if you are voting this year, who are you voting for Bush or Kerry?
I am catholic and I don't know yet who to vote for I have to listen to both goofballs talk more I guess.

Favorites:

1. TV Show? THAT 70's SHOW
2. CD? MIXES
3. Group/Singer? DONT HAVE ONE
4. Book? LANCE ARMSTRONG BOOKS
5. Movie? GOONIES
6. Hottest female celebrity? MANDY MOORE OOOOHHH DAMN

Questions from Dana in Miamisburg, Ohio

1) How do swimmers decide which stroke to specialize in, and how did you end up with the breatstroke. I mean I know some of it is natural ability, but it's gotta be more than that.
I think its a natural ability and whatever stroke you like to do the most that you choose to specialize in.

2) Saw you at FINA (great job!) and thought The Rings tattoo looks great on your shoulder. When and where did you get it, who went with you and how much did it hurt?
I got them in Greece and I went with Scott Usher the other breastroker.

Question from Liz Widger in Scranton, PA

Hi Brendan,
Congratulations on your medals; it was awesome to see you do so well at the games. I was wondering what were your favorite childhood toys?
I like BB guns....but be careful YOU'LL SHOOT YOUR EYE OUT!! Other than that I played with everything but never video games, I liked doing things outside.

Questions from Olacynth Davis, Charlottesville, VA (home of our beloved Ed Moses) and James Madison University love you!

Hey Brendan!
First of all, congrats on your accomplishments at the Olympics and Worlds. It's been a joy watching you and the rest of team USA. So now that you've graduated college, what is it that you plan to do when swimming is over?
Get a job.

How do you feel about the "alleged" illegal dolphin kick by Kitajima at the Olympics?
I think they need to go to video.

What was it like to take your college teammates with you on the trek to Athens?
Like traveling with brothers.

What really went down behind the scenes and out of the pool in Athens? Hahah, wouldn't you like to know.

What's it like to stand on the Olympics medal podium and listen to the national anthem play, and why doesn't anyone ever sing along?
You are so damn nervous but it's a pretty amazing feeling.

What's one sport, other than swimming, that you wish you were Olympic caliber in?
Baseball. I used to play and I loved it.

Questions from Crackinup from the OG

What's your favorite beer and your favorite bar?
I like all beer and my favorite bar in Austin is Pete's Piano Bar.

When you talk to yourself before you get on the blocks, what are you saying?
I wonder what I will have for dinner tonight. hahah No, I usually say "Lets get fired up!"

During the Olympics, the media portrayed you and Aaron as being best friends. True or a media spin?
No, he is like a brother I would do anything for my bro, and as you saw he would do anything for me. I think he was more mad at the dolphin kick than I was.

Do you typically watch your races on video after they're over? If so, what if anything do you learn from watching them?
I do, I look at how many strokes I take but mostly my body position in the water.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I want to go to a tropical island. Never been.

What's your most memorable race, throughout your entire swimming career?
The races at trials breaking the WR's.

What's your ideal Saturday night?
Having nothing planned but waking up the next day saying that was the most fun I ever had.

How do you think sponsorships have changed the landscape of competitive swimming? How (if at all) has it affected your career, aside from the obvious financial impact?
I think we are getting a lot more support and it is making swimming a lot more popular.

Do you ever go online and spy on what people are saying about you on message boards, websites, and such? Ok, of course you do or you wouldn't have found this site, so what's your reaction to it all?
I wish I had that kind of time, but I am too busy. I wouldn't mind hearing what they have to say.

After going through the effort to shave and wear high tech racing suits during major competition, why do you leave that little tuft of hair out the back of your swim cap? I mean, in theory, doesn't this also add drag? Or is the shaving more psychological to you? Incidentally, I've noticed that Aaron does this too, and it always makes me chuckle.
We like our fros haha. I agree with you but I not big on shaving my head.

Question from Amy in Indiana

Why do you swish the pool water/drink the pool water before a race?
I don't drink the water but it calms me down that water is cold I have to get used to it before I dive in. Same theory as you putting your foot in the bathtub before you hop right in.

Question from Suzanne

I was working for The Today Show in Athens, and met Brendan when he came on the show. My question isn't too creative but here it is: Brendan, I'm sure swimming at the Olympics in Athens was an incredible experience, BUT...what was your favorite part of being there other then the actual races? (and you don't have to say hanging out with me or coming on the show haha) Thanks!
HAHA. Hey Suzanne. Yeah the parties afterwards were pretty crazy. Something I will never forget.

Questions from Haintso

Hello Brendan,
I have a 2 quick question to ask you. How do you concentrate before you race? I seemed to get a bit distracted before i race which causes me to be super nervous.
I find something that relaxes me and I do it, its always going to be different. Could be talking to my teammates or floating around in the water. Water has a very calming affect to it.

My second question is what is the hardest breastroke set you have done?
I have never had a easy one. I always push myself as hard as I can.

Questions from Christy McConnell

First, congratulations for sweeping the breaststroke at the SC Worlds. That's an awesome accomplishment.. also a huge congratulations on the awesome victory and world record in the 4x100 IM. Ya just killed it, sick, awesome. When is the next national/international swim ompetition for you? Another quick one, Ian Crocker said that he would give his right arm to science if he could meet Bob Dylan" ...who would you like to meet dead or alive...?

Thanks!
Hopefully World champs next summer in Montreal. I don't think I need to meet anyone that bad. Bob Dylan is Ian's role model, mine is my parents and I talk to them everyday.

Questions from Ashley Hammer in Utah

I used to swim in high school, but can't anymore because of back problems. I love your attitude, and how you appreciate your fans. I am 21 years old, and I was wondering if you knew if they are going to be showing anymore swimming events on TV. This past 5 days has been so much fun. Your excitement is contagious. Another thing, how do we go about getting an autographed picture?
I think that it will be a while when it comes to watching swimming on TV. If you want me to send a picture just look on the Texas website for my address then send me a envelope with postage and I will do the rest.

Comment from Karissa in Chicago

Dear Brendan,
Thank you so much for taking a picture with my daughter you made her day. Way to go on all of your wins! THANK YOU!
Thank you!

Questions from Melissa in Austin, TX

Hello, Brendan, from a fellow Longhorn and Austinite. What are your plans for the next year and what club will you be training with?
UT

I heard you bought a house- will you be staying here with us here in Austin?
Yeah, I love this place.

Ever thought of adding a burnt orange longhorn tattoo to accompany that brand spankin' new rings tattoo?
I have the horns on my hip but only a handful of people have seen it.

And, if you're a football fan, do you think the Texas Football team will
ever be able win the big one (like Swimming & Diving has been able to do so often)?
Nope, they talk a big game but never deliver.

Questions from Orable in Chicago

Have you ever pee'd in the pool? Could you pee in Kitajima's lane next time you race?
I think every swimmer does. And now that wouldn't be good sportsmanship. haha.

Question from Lexi in NYC

You have incredible starts, which are great to watch live but always come out even more incredible in pictures. What do you concentrate on to get a good start Also, have you ever noticed in pics that you tend to look really pissed off at the water during a start?
Haha that's just me getting into the zone. Focus is key before the start.

Question from "Christina"

Hi Brendan,
A popular internet game is Marry, Shag or Cliff - the object is that from each list of three you have to Marry one, Shag one and throw the last over a cliff. In a recent game one of the groups was the Texas Trio. Very few people could decide between the 3 of you. So if you were playing the game, what would your answers be and why?

1. Brendan Hansen Cliff, I know all his deep secrets haha
2. Aaron Peirsol Cliff, because if I am going so is that punk
3. Ian Crocker Cliff, it wouldn't be right if he didn't follow

     I dont think I played right hahaah

Archived Article links

US Swimmers Dominate World Championships (10/12/2004)

Event Notes: Hansen and Hanson Named Swimmers of the Meet (10/12/2004)

World Short Course Champs, Day Five Finals: Flash! Medley Relay Lives Up To Hype With the Texas/Lezak Juggernaut Breaks World Mark (10/11/2004)

Texans Make Big Splash (10/11/2004)

World Short Course Swim Championship results (10/11/2004)

Peirsol Tops Own World Record In 200 Backstroke, US sets World record in 4x100 Medley Relay (10/11/2004)

Short Course World Champs, Day 5: Brendan Hansen Completes the Breaststroke Sweep by Winning the 50 (10/11/2004)

Daily Report from Worlds: Day 5 (10/11/2004)

Short Course World Champs, Day Four: Brendan Hansen Leads the 50 Breast Semis (10/10/2004)

DAY 4 EVENING QUOTES FROM ATHLETES (10/10/2004)

Day 4 Morning Quotes from Athletes (10/10/2004)

Finals, Day 3 Report (10/10/2004)

Short Course World Championships, Day Four Prelims: All Events (10/10/2004)

More Gold for Yanks (10/10/2004)

Short Course World Champs, Day Three Finals: Hansen Is Untouchable in the 200 Breast (10/10/2004)

Day 3 Evening Quotes from Athletes (10/9/2004)

Day 3 Morning Quotes from Athlestes (10/9/2004)

Four top-5s for Canada but no medals at world short course championships (10/9/2004)

Short Course World Championships, Day 3 Prelims: All events (10/9/2004)

Short Course World Championships: Swimmers Spurn FINA Policy That Makes Them "Walking Billboards" (10/9/2004)

FINA's new marketing strategy draws complaints from swimmers (10/9/2004)

Swimming: Hansen on top of world (10/9/2004)

U.S. Continue to Dominate Without Injured Phelps (10/9/2004)

Day 2 Evening Quotes from Athletes (10/98/2004)

2004 World SC Championships - Day 2 Finals Report (10/82004)

Short Course World Champs, Day 2 Finals: Hansen Triumphs in 100 Breast (10/8/2004)

Americans take center stage with Phelps on sideline (10/8/2004)

Team USA continues to dominate Short Course Worlds (10/8/2004)

United States edges Australia in men's 800 free relay; Phelps injured (10/8/2004)

Autographs are no sweat (10/8/2004)

Short Course World Champs, Day One: Hansen Dominates the 100 Breast Semifinals (10/72004)

Short Course World Champs, Day One: Crocker Breezes Through 100 Fly Semis (10/7/2004)

Sandeno boasts big night at Short Course Worlds (10/7/2004)

Short Course Worlds: Day 1 Prelims Report (10/7/2004)

World Short Course Swim Championship results (10/7/2004)

Swimming: Phelps eases into world short course 200 free final (10/7/2004)

Indianapolis Kicks Off FINA World Swimming Championships (10/7/2004)

Swimming: Hansen now finally taking a road home (10/6/2004)

Autograph Posters For The 2004 World Short Course Swimming Championships Are Available (10/1/2004)

Transcript of Disney's Live Q&A Chat with Michael Phelps, Lenny Krayzelburg, and Ian Crocker (10/01/2004)

Youth movement - Swim teams must replace veteran leaders (9/30/2004)

Gold Nike's autographed by Brendan Hansen being auctioned
to raise money for the Melanoma Research Foundation.

20 Questions with Scott Usher (9/28/2004)

Olympian Usher is still 'just Scott' Former Islander soaking in Athens experience one month later (9/27/2004)

SWIMMING: Phelps to Compete Every Day of the FINA World Swimming Championships in Indy's Conseco Fieldhouse

Olympic swimmer meets with kids 9/22/2004

UT Medalist Swimmer Spreading Message To Kids 9/22/2004 VIDEO!

Phelps named Swimmer of the Year (9/20/2004)

Television Coverage of Short Course World Championships 9/17/2004

HILARIOUS fan chat with Brenden Hansen - It's in Excel format and difficult as heck to follow but there are some gems in there that make it well worth the effort.

Olympic Team and Individual Athlete Photos Available from USOC Pressbox

See Argent Ad here.

Editorial: Countians in Olympics have made us proud (8/25/2004)

With a few jokes and lots of intensity, swimming coach Eddie Reese knows how to win ... big (8/23/2004)

Marion says everyone's against U.S. (8/23/2004)

Hansen out to conquer Great Wall (8/23/2004)

Fantastic article about Olympic and Longhorn teammate Ian Crocker with nice quote from Brendan (8/22/2004)

United States men set world record in winning Olympic medley relay (8/21/2004)

Hansen 3rd in 200-meter breaststroke

Hansen still strong enough to take bronze (8/19/2004)

Hansen an inspiration to Delco swimmers (8/19/2004)

Hansen takes two steps toward the gold (8/18/2004)

Hansen foe will swim under judges' microscope (8/17/2004)

John Lohn: One medal isn't enough to satisfy Brendan (8/16/2004)

Hansen's Cheering Section Stretches All Over the World (8/16/2004)

Hansen's silver: Dolphin-kick controversy dogs gold winner (8/16/2004)

Hansen takes a ride on the silver streak (8/16/2004)

Kitajima beats Hansen in breaststroking duel (8/15/2004)

Hansen is clearly on that golden road (8/15/2004)

Brendan Hansen missed out on Sydney, but not this time (8/15/2004)

Gold is within his grasp Hansen casts a shadow of his own (8/14/2004)

Hey world, here comes Hansen (8/13/2004)

Olympics: Anticipation is building for Hansen clan (8/12/2004)

Hansen tries to picture task as just another dip in the pool

In Depth: Olympics: Delaware County will be a presence at the Summer Olympics in Athens (8/8/2004)

Swimmer sets records and eyes on the gold 8/4/2004 VIDEO!

Mental Strength (August, 2004)

23 Olympians Committed to Short Course Worlds (7/29/2004)

Olympics: Hansen still working on Athens form (7/28/2004)

Brendan Confirmed for 7th FINA WORLD SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS (25m) (7/20/2004)

All hail Haverford heroes: Two headed for Olympics (7/20/2004)

John Lohn: Long Beach perfect locale to hold Trials (7/18/2004)