Rarely does a freshman enter with such a bang.

Tyler Hong has done just that, and is the student-athlete of the week as a result.

The freshman phenom notched two first place finishes at the 43rd annual Viking Swimming & Diving Meet, leading the Aqua Cats on Saturday. Hong tabbed a time of :50.51 in the 100 fly and a mark of :51.48 in the 100 backstroke, both winning gold.

Hong also swam well in the relays, helping the Catfish nab fourth in the 200 medley relay. 

Hong also performed well as an individual outside of varsity action. Hong clocked a time of 1:51.43 in the 200 IM at the 2017 Speedo Junior Nationals East in Knoxville, Tennessee. Hong's performance earned him 40th place, but more impressive, placed him 13th in the all-time rankings in the 13-14 year old age group. His time ranks him ahead of well-known swimmers Ryan Murphy and Maxime Rooney. 

Hong's quick start to the season has the Wildcats hopeful for the remainder of the season, as the freshman could make a huge impact at the State Meet.

Before Columbus, though, the Wildcats have a long road ahead. The Aqua Cats will face Upper Arlington in Columbus on Friday and participate in the Ned Reeb Invitational at The Ohio State University on Saturday.

Congrats to Tyler and the Aqua Cats!