Indiana University Athletics
Where Are They Now? - William Bernhardt
10/13/2005 12:00:00 AM | Men's Swimming and Diving
Oct. 13, 2005
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - Over the 2005-06 campaign, IUHOOSIERS.com will catch up with former Indiana swimmers and divers to see where life has taken them after graduating from IU. Will Bernhardt, who swam for IU from 2000-01, took the time to fill in IUHOOSIERS.com on his life since graduation.
What have you been doing since graduating from Indiana University?
I am currently the head swim coach for the Irish Aquatics Swim Club in South Bend, Ind. I have been coaching since my fifth year of school, when I served as a volunteer assistant at Indiana. I have coached in California, Chicago and South Bend since my graduation. I love coaching and could not imagine any other profession that is as rewarding and fulfilling.
What did you enjoy the most about your time as a Hoosier?
I enjoyed my friendships that I developed at IU. They are life-long brotherhoods that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Nothing is greater than knowing you have hundreds of friends that will drop everything to come to your aid when needed. You cannot ask for a more valuable thing in life. They are friendships that will last forever and know no bounds.
What piece of advice would you give to any current Hoosier?
I would have to tell all current Hoosiers to live life to the fullest. Don't take anything for granted, because before you know it college will be over and you will be in the real world. You cannot say "I will do it tomorrow" because tomorrow comes too soon and you will run out of time. Be tough, stay focused and follow your dreams!
Would you say that being a student-athlete at Indiana University has helped you get to where you are today?
I think that being a student-athlete has directly affected my life. Without it, I would have had no focus to stay in school and work to get a good education. Swimming gave me a life-long gift of knowledge and perseverance that I will take with me in all aspects of life.
