The winter days are just filled for Chase Goulart.

The 19-year-old is balancing engineering studies at the United States Merchant Marine Academy with competition on the school swimming team, fitting in occasional trips to the Big Apple.

Goulart, a 2010 Mount Si High School graduate, won gold at state last spring in the 200 meter individual medley. He secured his spot at the academy, located in Kings Point, New York, though a nomination from 8th District Congressman Dave Reichert. He then had to be picked to join the team by the school’s coach. His full-ride scholarship is worth more than $200,000.

Goulart’s athletic potential has taken a new twist at the academy. Formerly focused on distance races, he’s been pushed to try more short swims.

“I’ve hit a couple of rough spots, because the system is a bit different,” he said. “I thought it would be tough. I just didn’t think my body would react to all the changes… At the academy, they have us trying to bulk up all the time.”

Goulart has always preferred the long races, and feels he’ll work his way back into them. But for now, he’s got events to win. Goulart has upcoming winter mets including several against Merchant Marine rivals in the Coast Guard Academy. To get ready, he plans to hit the pool hard and lift weights. He also heads to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., after the holidays to attend a training camp.

By the end of the school year, he wants to qualify for NCAA competition in the mile and 500-meter race.

Swimming is a big deal at the academy; practices happen year-round.

“A lot of people come out and support us all the time,” including the dean and superintendent, Goulart said.

Kings Points is 20 minutes from New York City.

“The city is my playground,” Goulart said. “They have the best pizza.” Trips to the big city are a way for cadets to beat boredom with dining-hall fare.

Free time is sparse most days. Cadets are trained in time management, but must always keep noses to the grindstone.

“You have to hit the books all the time. If you don’t stay on top of that, you’re not going to pass the class,” Goulart said.

The ins and outs of ship operations are a big part of his education.

“My engineering class, most of the time, is on a shop. You’re learning in an engine room,” he said. Goulart is looking forward to sailing the world, working on a ship, during his sophomore and junior years.

When he graduates, Goulart will leave as an ensign in the U.S. Navy, but can go into any branch of the military that he chooses.

Goulart started swimming at age 2, competitively at 8. To aspiring swimmers, Goulart suggests diving in, right away.

“Find a coach you like,” he said. “If you don’t like the coach, you’re not going to like the sport.”