Completed Event: Swimming and Diving versus Big 12 Duals on January 16, 2026 , , 5th, 781 points


04.01.2009 | Swimming and Diving
AMES, Iowa- Welcome to “Out of the Pool”. Each week, cyclones.com asks two Iowa State swimming and diving student-athletes questions about their competitive aquatic experiences as well as questions on the “lighter side”. Featured this week are freshmen Caitlin Adams and Danielle Levings.
Caitlin Adams, Freshman, Freestyle, Independence, Iowa
Why did you choose Iowa State?
I chose Iowa State because I really liked the school and for a chance to compete in Division I athletics.
What is your favorite thing about Iowa State?
The people, there are always new people to meet and everyone is so helpful.
Which teammate is most proud to be a Cyclone?
Frances Calzada, she is always cheering everyone on.
In one word, describe head coach Duane Sorenson.
Patient
What is your favorite food?
Cheesy potatoes
What is your dream vacation?
Australia, for the waves and the accents
Do you have any hidden talents?
I can stand on my head for quite some time.
Danielle Levings, Freshman, Backstroke, Whitefish Bay, Wis.
Which teammate is the funniest?
Jeli Nixt is definately the funniest member of the team; she jokes all the time and makes me laugh nearly every day.
Which teammate is most proud to be a Cyclone?
Maddie Crawford definitely bleeds cardinal and gold, and she cheers all the time.
Which teammate would succeed at another sport and which sport?
Kalyn Amundsen would be a really good sprinter for track; during stadium steps, she ran so far ahead of us all!
Who has had the greatest impact on your athletic career?
Both my high school coach, Jim Davis, and my club coach, Dave Westfahl, have had a tremendous impact on my swimming career. They encouraged me to aim high, have a good work ethic, and swim for the love of swimming. Their coaching is the reason I am here today.
What is your favorite sport other than swimming?
Volleyball. I love to spike the ball if I can set it up right.
What is your dream vacation?
I would love to visit Hawaii, and stay in a luxury hotel on the beach with a spa, and just enjoy the scenery while relaxing all day.
Who is your role model?
My role model is my mom. She is a kind and genuine person, so full of love and joy; I aspire to be just like her when I become a parent. She has always encouraged me to be the best person I can be, and has always been so supportive of me.