Sports Spotlight - West Orange Times & Observer: Alex Robinson

Since his freshman year at West Orange High, Alex Robinson has dreamed of breaking the 19-year-old record in the 100-yard backstroke. The record was previously set in 1998 at a time of 57.29 seconds. At the MetroWest Championships on Oct. 11, Robinson broke the record with a time of 57.25 seconds.

What was it like breaking that record?

I actually didn’t know I broke the record at first. My younger brother was racing in the lane next to me, and I touched the wall, looked up and saw his time thinking it was mine. So I thought he broke the record until my coach told me. It was this big moment of how did I miss that.

How does it feel finally breaking the record after four years of working towards that goal?

Finally my senior year to get it, it was a way to commemorate my last year. 

What is your goal now?

To make it to the state championship meet. Every year, it gets more and more competitive with times. I’m not sure if I have a good time with my backstroke, but my 100 free probably has a good chance to go to state. If I can do that, that will encapsulate everything I’ve wanted since freshman year.

How long have you been swimming?

I’ve been swimming since I was about 5 years old. I haven’t done any other sports. I tried football once but hated it, so I went back to swimming.

What is it like swimming with the SouthWest Stars and at West Orange?

It’s just a really great environment. During the season, I train a little bit with SouthWest and a little bit with West Orange. The training at SouthWest is a little bit harder, so it helps me get to the next level.

What motivates you to push yourself to the next level?

I don’t want to be in the future and look back and regret not pushing harder. Ever since freshman year, I always wanted to get that backstroke record. I’d really hate if in 10 years down the road I wonder if I could have done better if I just pushed harder. Even now that I’ve broken the record, it’s what’s next?

How do you prepare for big swim meets?

I’m a big music guy. I get home from school and put my music on. If I don’t, then I’m really jittery (at the meet). It keeps my positivity up and keeps me mentally focused for the race.