Gage stands as silent leader for m. swimming

"Relax." — the word that triggered male model Derrick Zoolander to become a killing machine might as well be senior Jesse Gage's personal motto. But you won't find Gage attacking the prime minister of an obscure Asian country anytime soon.

So, in that case, just what exactly does "relax" mean to Gage? For this standout swimmer, it just so happens that nothing is more soothing than a nice hot shower.

Understandably, Gage is no fan of cold water. So he keeps his cool by warming up. Gage habitually spends the time between warm-ups and his actual events under the warm water that flows by the diving area.

Given that obsessive-compulsive personality types normally dominate swimming, Gage's laid-back demeanor is particularly shocking. Yet, while teammates anxiously pace before races, Gage has been known to catch a quick nap.

"The kid is chill," senior captain Karl Tellen said. "He moves about 10 times faster in the water than he does on land."

Gage may indeed be lethargic on the pool deck, but his sluggishness dissolves like chlorine in water.

"He's a sprint thoroughbred," head coach Rob Orr said. "You tell him to swim fast, and he does."

A quick look at Gage's times more than backs up Orr's words. His 43.95 in the 100-yard freestyle and his 47.77 in the 100y butterfly are both school records. Additionally, he was also a member of record setting relay teams in the 200y and 400y freestyle and 400y medley events. As if that wasn't enough, he's within striking distance of the Princeton record for both the 50y freestyle and butterfly.

As an incoming freshman four years ago, Gage was highly recruited, owning fast times in both sprint and longer distance events. But with the team loaded in long-distance events but thin in sprinters, he began focusing on the area where his talents were most needed.

"He filled a void. He was already faster than our other sprinters," Orr said. "We were lucky to get him."

Now, when a meet is on the line, the Tigers instinctively turn to Gage.

"He's so versatile and reliable in terms of always doing what's needed," Orr said. "His impact will be more obvious once he's gone."

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Despite what his innate talent and mellow manner might make one expect, Gage hasn't just moseyed his way to success. Once he leaves the starting blocks, relaxation is replaced by intensity.

"He always demands perfection of himself in races," senior captain Carl Hessler said.

Not surprisingly, Gage considers hard work the key to success. He also uses it as a method of leadership. Teammates aren't bothered by his dearth of words.

"Jesse's an unbelievable talent who inspires and pushes his teammates," senior Jamie Leahy said. "His tenacity and drive let his physical capabilities speak louder than words."

In turn, Gage credits his teammates for much of his success. He considers the camaraderie and motivation that the seniors on the team provide each other with as critical to their collective success.

With only Eastern and NCAA championships remaining this season, the days are numbered in Gage's college career. But there's still business to be taken care of.

Nothing less than a continuation of the Tigers' undefeated season is acceptable. Last year at Eastern's, Gage tied as the top point-scorer for the weekend, and another such performance would go a long way towards a Princeton victory.

Despite the pressure, the Tigers can count on Gage to deliver. Certainly, he won't lose any sleep due to visions of Crimson rivals.

Just make sure the hot water does not run out.