Indian River State College’s Bradley Tandy, one of the top Junior College swimmers in history, quietly underwent shoulder surgery last July, and has spent 6 months undergoing therapy and rehab. Finally back in full training, this past weekend at the Craigie Invitational, Tandy swam a 19.7 in the 50 free, saying afterward that he is “finally getting his confidence back.”
“Didn’t expect to pull off a 19 but glad I’m glad I did. [All of the kick training] took lots of stress and pressure off my shoulders.”
The mental aspect of injury, especially joint injuries, is one that is often overlooked when athletes are returning from surgery. Yes, they may be physically healed, but they are never truly back until they can convince their brain that it’s ok to go full-steam again without having to worry about that shoulder or that knee giving out every time.
Tandy is hoping to finish his last year at Indian River much like he did last season before transferring to the University of Arizona next fall. The South African swam 19.06 in the 50 free and 42.76 in the 100 free at last year’s Junior College National Championships, both of which set JuCo National Records.
so great to hear that he’s still swimming great even after the surgery
but for as far as nationals, I think a lesser known star on their team, Luis A. Flores could end up winning at Juco Nationals in the 50 before Brad
I could even see Rich Andrews getting into the Mix
Great group of sprinters down there
I dont think anyone will touch Brad in the 50 or the 100. With his confidence back, everyone else will be fighting for the minor places…..far behind!!!!
Hahahahahah! I love you guys.
That’s my roommate!