US Olympic Swimming Team 2012: Missy Franklin Phenomenon Set to Go Viral

In casual conversation about the Olympics with a few friends and relatives over the past few weeks, I’ve mentioned the topic of Missy Franklin.

The typical reply?

“Who’s that?”

I’ve forgiven these people in the moment, but days from now their ignorance of the 17-year-old swimming phenom from Centennial, Colo. will be inexcusable. Or even more likely, impossible.

If all goes according to plan, Franklin will be the first woman ever to race in seven events at the Olympics. If things go well for Franklin, she could be looking at seven medals. Franklin won two events at the U.S. Olympic trials a few weeks ago, including the 200-meter backstroke, her strongest discipline. She finished second in two others.

There’s really no question that Franklin will medal—it’s more a matter of when and how. She is currently ranked No. 1 in the world in the 100-meter backstroke (58.65) and the 200-meter backstroke (2:06.12).

In addition to being built for speed that’s fast enough for Olympic gold, the 6’1” Franklin also seems to have the demeanor and mentality ready to handle a grueling schedule. Even Michael Phelps, the expert on the subject, has high hopes for her.

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“I think she did a great job,” Phelps told the Denver Post at the Olympic trials. “With the double and triples or 15,000 events, she was always running back and forth. She handled herself great. She is on top of things, and I think it’s going to be amazing for her to come back in a couple of weeks (in London) and do the same thing if not better.”

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Always upbeat and positive, Franklin is sure to become an Olympic fan favorite quickly. She interacts with fans on Twitter, granting their retweet wishes quite regularly. And as someone who has aspirations of becoming a broadcast journalist, she understands how to be an engaging personality and give a great interview. Despite her youth, Franklin is already a willing ambassador for Team USA and the sport of swimming, something Phelps has not always seemed eager to be.

But Phelps doesn’t have to make room on that Wheaties box for Franklin just yet. The teen has chosen to turn down prize money and endorsements to preserve her amateur status and stay eligible for college competition.

A young Olympian with supreme talent and a good head on her shoulders? It’s time to expect big things from Missy Franklin.