Friday Feature: Swimming in Hollywood
December 10, 2010 | Men's Swimming & Diving
Dec. 10, 2010
BOSTON - Boston University's Matt Rickett has proven that he can do more than just swim. His education in the College of Communication and his passion for writing and films has inspired him to pursue a new hobby outside of swimming. This already time-crunched BU student-athlete has managed to successfully balance screenwriting with swimming and school.
Rickett spent this last summer in Los Angeles writing screenplays for Matthew Sweeting, the owner of Sweeting Independent films. Rickett's job entailed hours of writing on his own and then editing through Skype with his boss. In his six months with Sweeting Independent films, he managed to write his own screenplay and sign a contract with Mr. Sweeting himself so that one day his work can be turned into an independent film.
Currently Rickett is in the process of writing a second screenplay for his portfolio after college. This one is 118 pages and has taken him three months to develop so far. The screenplay is titled, "My Big Gay Idol." It features a high school senior who tries to come out of the closet to his conservative Senator father who is running for re-election against a gay marriage bill, all the while balancing a secret affair with the All-America quarterback and his ex-girlfriend.
How did Rickett decide he wants to become a screenwriter? "I saw an awful movie, The Holiday. Arthur [played by Eli Wallach] made me want to write movies." It is evident Rickett is a movie enthusiast as he provides movie critiques; however, it is ironic that he has chosen the word "awful" to describe a movie that pushed him in the direction of his dreams.
One would assume Rickett's rigorous swim schedule would keep him from being able to write screenplays during the school year, but despite his two-a-day practices and weekend meets, he still manages to find time to follow his dream. "Any free time is a luxury, there are days when I go straight from class to practice, to writing, back to practice, back to writing and finally to bed."
Rickett describes swimming and screenwriting as his priorities. He acknowledges that this is his last season of swimming and as gradation approaches, he must focus on his future. His dedication to his activities becomes apparent as he leans back in his seat, takes a deep breath and explains, "You have to be willing to do whatever it takes. As long as I can stay ahead of the game, I am fine with it."
Matt Rickett is definitely ahead of the game. He swam a whopping seven events in the Terrier Invite, finishing first in five of his events: the 100 fly, 200-free relay, 400-free relay, 200-medley relay and the 400-medley relay. He certainly does not let his writing get in the way of his swimming or vice-versa, as he is excelling in both areas.
Rickett's passion for screenwriting is both admirable and contagious. His drive to succeed is truly inspiring. If you happen to see the tall and lanky fellow walking down Commonwealth Avenue feel free to stop him to talk about his achievements. Although I suggest you allot a significant amount of time to talk to the young man as you won't want to stop hearing about his fascinating dream and impressive lifestyle.
