First-year Noah Faldet’s favorite stroke is the breaststroke, and it shows in his performance.

Faldet broke the school record for the 100 breaststroke and was a member of the record-setting 4×100 medley relay last month at the MIAC Championships at the University of Minnesota Aquatic Center.

His 56.03-second 100 breaststroke time broke the previous school record of 56.42 seconds and earned him second place at the MIAC Championships in February.

“It was a really great time for me,” Faldet said.

Faldet and teammates John Gahnz, Max Larson and Tom Negaard finished the 4×100 medley relay in one minute and 30 seconds, breaking the school record of three minutes nineteen seconds and taking second place.

“We really got the whole family atmosphere down,” Faldet said. “We are already talking about next season, we are getting together and lifting and figuring out summer workouts.”

Not only did Faldet contribute to two records, but he was also given the MIAC Team Sportsmanship award alongside senior Annie Kleckner Thiele. The award is given to one male and one female from each team who supports their teammates and exhibits the best sportsmanship.

“It is great, honestly, that I got that award,” Faldet said. “It is not about the times, it is not about the championships, it is not about the finish, those things will come and go. It is about the impact you have on people’s lives.”

One of Faldet’s pre-meet rituals is wearing funky socks.

“For me it is a reminder to have fun because sometimes I take swimming way too serious,” Faldet said.

According to his coach, Scott Blanchard, Faldet is a team player.

“He has a thoughtful approach to his training that has led to his success. He is a very coachable athlete, always looking to make improvements on his technique and pushes himself consistently,” Blanchard said.

Faldet is already looking toward the future for the Tommies’ swim and dive team.

“We are really excited for what is to come,” Faldet said.

Rae Beaner can be reached at rnbeaner696@stkate.edu.