To Brady Calkins ’25, the idea of excellence evokes leadership, dedication, and hard work. Brady displays those traits into all he does, whether it’s in the classroom or in the water. He has exemplified dedication and ambition throughout his Jesuit swim career, breaking an individual school record as well as being a part of several school relay records. 

“He has proven his skills in the pool and has set numerous team records,” said Swimming Head Coach Michael Solander. “His name is part of all three relay teams 200 meter Medley, 200 meter Freestyle and 400 meter Freestyle – all those records were set in the 1990s so it was a great achievement setting new team records. Brady also set a new school record in the [individual] 100 meter backstroke during the 2023 to 2024 swim season.”

Furthermore, Brady has been recognized as a three-time NISCA (National Interscholastic Swimming Coaches Association) All-American through his first three seasons with the Marauders. He’s received the prestigious honors after placing in the top 100 nationally in his respective events and is aiming to be recognized for the fourth consecutive year.

Brady is determined to excel and put full effort into everything he does. Swim teammate and close friend Ben Castillo ’25 testifies to Brady’s character.

“Brady is incredibly driven and always strives to be the best at whatever he does,” Ben said. “He’s one of the hardest workers I’ve ever met. On top of that, he’s an amazing swimmer, widely regarded as one of the best to come out of Jesuit [...] As well as a wizard in the classroom. On top of all of the athletics, he is just as good in the class as the pool.” 

Brady has immersed himself in every single one of his experiences at Jesuit. Counselor Ms. Jennifer Rasmussen has observed Brady’s thorough involvement at Jesuit. 

“Brady’s contribution is as a leader,” Ms. Rasmussen said. “He is an active participant in many areas of Jesuit. Brady will be a stand out leader and number one in athletics, but will also be part of the crowd for games in which he isn’t participating as a member of the team. He is a member of the brotherhood. In class, he listens but also is a determined learner and participant.”

Brady has shined as a varsity swimmer for four years. His swim career will extend past his time at Jesuit and into the collegiate level, at Notre Dame. Coach Solander, having known Brady since a young age, is well-versed with Brady’s success as both a swimmer and a man for others. 

“He is a scholarship swimmer to Notre Dame and has excelled in numerous events for the Marauders,” Mr. Solander said, “I have never had Brady in the classroom but I have known that he wanted to be a Marauder since at least the age of 10. This will be his fourth year at the varsity level. Brady understands the importance of both personal and collective growth. He is respected among his teammates and the broader school community.” 

Brady has spent his time at Jesuit creating a legacy far greater than just his records. He will be forever remembered as an exceptional teammate, student, and friend, and he’ll go on to live out what he has learned at Jesuit.

“I am extremely grateful for my time at Jesuit. My experience has helped shape me into the person I am becoming, a ‘Man for and with Others.’ I look forward to continuing to live this out as I step into the next chapter of my life.” Brady said. “I encourage the entire student body to take advantage of all the opportunities Jesuit has to offer. We are so fortunate to be a part of this community and I realize that more and more every day I am here.”