Thomas Dillinger Is Greenwich Athlete Of The Month

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Thanks to a spotless record in the 200 and 500-yard freestyle entering the postseason, in addition to being an integral part of the 200 and 400-yard relay teams, Dillinger has been named The Greenwich Daily Voice Athlete of the Month.

"The 200 and 500 are my favorite events," Dillinger said. "They're harder because they're farther distances and they're really competitive."

Thomas isn't the first Dillinger to make waves for the Cardinals. His older brother Andrew was a key cog in three Greenwich High state championship swim teams and now swims for Emory University.

Thomas credits his success to his coaches at Greenwich High and the YMCA Dolphins -- and a healthy rivalry with his older brother.

Thomas beat his brother by a few seconds last summer in the annual one-mile Greenwich Point Swim in one of the few times they have actually swam against each other.

"We haven't really swam competitively that much, but we've been swimming together since I was six or seven," Dillinger said. "I guess that was my first actual win against him. So I guess he's training harder now."

Greenwich's biggest win of the season came back on Jan. 26 when the Cardinals knocked off Fairfield Prep, the team that ended its incredible 19-year grip on the Class LL state title. 

Although that victory was sweet revenge, Dillinger said it would be even sweeter to take down Prep in the state meet to reclaim the title once again.

"Prep has a really good team and similar lineups, especially in relays. Anything could happen," Dillinger said. "We weren't quite as strong last year, but everyone is back and is stronger and faster. We're ready for revenge and I'm really expecting to have my fastest times at LL's and the state open."

In addition to swimming for Greenwich High, Dillinger also competes for the Greenwich YMCA Dolphins and Greenwich Country Club in the Fairfield County Swim League.

Greenwich competes in the conference championship meet on Feb. 28.

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