There are natural leaders. And there's Bingham senior Josh Rueckert.
When it comes to leadership in the world of sports, some athletes simply have it and others simply don't. Rueckert definitely does.
Throughout the 2006-07 season, which has seen Bingham's swim program exceed almost everyone's expectations, Rueckert has anchored the squad.
"He's very dependable, a natural leader," said coach Andee Bouwhuis. "He's been a team captain, and he's really taken charge of the younger swimmers."
Bingham had a very solid season a year ago, but graduation took its toll, and it was uncertain how the Miners would fare this season.
With Rueckert leading the way, however, Bingham has flourished again. Heading into the 5A state meet this weekend, Rueckert will look to build on the recent success he had at the Region 3 championships.
There, he won both his individual events, the 100-yard free and 200 free.
"I was so amazed. I was so happy," he said of his performance.
Rueckert was part of a Bingham squad that dropped lots of time across the board. The Miners finished second to West Jordan at the Region 3 meet.
"Our team swam so good," he said afterward. "Everyone, I think, made best times."
After high school, Rueckert said he hopes to swim at the University of Utah. One day, he plans to attend medical school.
Overall, Bouwhuis feels lucky the senior captain stumbled into the Miners. That's because Rueckert came to the Bingham High area from a nearby school.
"He moved into our boundaries from Hunter," said Bouwhuis.
E-mail: drasmussen@desnews.com