Graves Middle School 8th grade student, Oscar Cruz, was recognized and interviewed by channel 11 FoxLA for his accomplishments in and outside of school as a part of their School Standout series.
Fox reporter and anchor, Megan Colarossi, sat down and talked with Oscar about his achievements in swimming. Oscar currently holds the Southern California Swimming record for the 200 yard butterfly in the 11 to 12 year old age division.
Oscar began swimming when he was just four years old and has been swimming with the Whittier Aquatics Club. He shared that he loves swimming because it’s a fun sport and it’s an outlet for him.
“Let’s say if I’m angry or sad it’s something I use to let everything go and have fun, “ Cruz stated.
Cruz credits his record setting to having a strong mindset and being disciplined. He said, “train, train, train, and one day it will come back to you.”
Oscar explained he got his strong work ethic from his parents who have inspired him to be his best and to stay disciplined.
“My parents came to the USA from Mexico with nothing. They found a job and worked hard every day. All their hard work is paying off. I truly appreciate their hard work because I would not have made it if it wasn't for them,” Cruz shared.
Oscar shared that he also finds inspiration from his teachers, coaches, and other people who have met their goals through working hard.
Graves Middle School principal, Dr. Trena Salcedo-Gonzales, was also briefly interviewed by Ms. Colarossi about Oscar. When she was asked if she thinks Oscar will be able to achieve his goals, she shared that because of his good character and strong work ethic she believes he will definitely be able to achieve his dreams.
Oscar’s goals are to go to the 2024 olympics, make the USA swim team, win a gold medal, attend Stanford University, and hopefully set a world record for the 200m fly.
When asked about how he felt about being interview by a tv station Oscar stated he felt extremely proud.
“I felt so proud to be interview by channel 11 because I never expected something like this to happen to me at this age, after all those years of hard work and dedication. It is finally starting a pathway to a journey that I want when I get older.”
Viewers can watch Oscar’s interview with Megan Colarossi on Thursday, October 31, at 8:45 a.m. on FoxLA channel 11!