He later swam the lead leg in a team effort of the 400-yard freestyle relay, where the team had a record-breaking time of 3:01.01.

Because of his outstanding performance in the pool, Schmitt was named Big Ten Swimmer of the Week on Tuesday.

Schmitt and the rest of the team will be heading to the Big Ten Championships in February.

State News: How did you feel after you found out you had broken two records?

Adam Schmitt: I was really excited. I was pretty nervous before the race, so I was excited when I found out about the records.

SN: Was this the first time you had broken records since you began swimming for MSU?

AS: No. During my sophomore year we broke some records. I was a member of a record-breaking relay team.

SN: You were named this week’s Big Ten Swimmer of the Week. What does that mean for you?

AS: This is actually the second time I’ve gotten it. This time it’s more exciting because last time I’m pretty sure we were the only Big Ten school swimming that week, so I was the only one (eligible). This time, though, there were other people up for the honors.

SN: This is your last year swimming for MSU. What would be the perfect capstone on your career?

AS: I want to get in the top eight in all my meets, but the big thing for me would be to qualify for NCAA championships in one or more events. That would be a good finish.

SN: What are your expectations heading into the Big Ten Championships?

AS: It’s hard to say, but my expectations for myself are to get into the top eight and beat my personal bests.

SN: Are there any improvements you would like to see your team make before heading to the championships?

AS: We just have to stay focused and keep our sights set on our goals and not travel off into any other mental state that’s distracting.