Matthew Josa is one of Roy – Allan Burch’s teammates at SwimMac North Carolina. He is an American citizen, and a member of the U.S. National Men’s swimming team. He is aiming to qualify for Rio 2016, which would be his first Olympics. He also took a moment to answer a few questions about the upcoming Olympics, for us.
Q: Do you think that you will be affected by the different language and culture of Brazil? What do you think is the best way to adapt to the culture shock and language barrier?
A: “I do not think I’ll be affected by the culture shock. They’ve got people in the villages to help you adapt and understand the things that are going on. Will I enjoy it [the culture]? Yes, I’ll enjoy the culture there, and I think that’s the part about the Olympic Games that makes it so special.”
Q: Q: Do you think that you will be affected by the climate of Brazil? What is the best way to adapt to the change in climate?
A: “I think the climate might be a factor [for me], especially with swimming, since the pool is going to be outdoors. I know that the time of the year is during the winter [in Brazil], but it’s nothing that a little preparation can’t help. As far as being affected by it [the climate], you know, if you’re affected by it, then most everybody else is affected by it too.”
Q: Do you think that the increased pressure of competing in the Olympics will affect you? What is the best way to adapt to the pressure?
A: “I think that everybody is affected by the pressure, at the Olympics, and that’s because it’s the Olympics. But as far as swimming goes, you just need to remember that the pool is still 50 meters long and nothing changes. So just swim your own race.”
Q: What is the best way to avoid becoming intimidated by the famous athletes that you are competing against at the Olympics?
A: “Uh, [by] not thinking about it. [The way] to not be intimidated by other athletes, is to know that you are [also] one of those other athletes, and that [some of the other athletes] will [also] be intimidated by you. So you’re there for yourself, you’re there for your country, and you’ve [got to] do, what you’ve [got to] do to get the gold for your country.”
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