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The York Suburban junior will tell jokes and talk to anyone, including right up until it's time to get in the water and race.
Heck, Marsteller will even go out and dine on Whoppers and has a penchant for loving ice cream, much to the chagrin of many swimmers who prefer healthy foods.
Yet he proved he is one of the best swimmers in the state after taking his second straight PIAA Class AA gold medal in the 100 backstroke.
Not only that, but Marsteller also earned a silver medal in the 200 freestyle and combined with Chris Manning, Harry Foster and Ben Appleby to set state records in both the 200 medley relay and 400 free relay.
Yes, it was quite a year for Kevin Marsteller, so it is quite fitting that he be crowned the Daily Record/Sunday News YAIAA Boys' Swimmer of the Year.
We caught up with him for a question-and-answer session.
Being the YAIAA swimmer of the year is a cool thing, but how tough was it being best on your own team?
Our team is really great. I don't think I stand out. All four of us are really good. That is why we won states.
What is it like to stand at the top podium after earning a gold medal?
It is really cool. It is more cool for relays. The thing on my mind on the backstroke (podium) was getting ready for the (400 free) relay. Quick, fake a smile and get serious.
Same question, but with your team winning the title?
That is a lot of fun. That is the best part about winning, posing with the trophy.
How do you prepare for a big race?
Stay focused, don't get nervous. Have fun.
Do you have any superstitions?
Good-luck boxers, if I can say that. (I always) end up wearing them. It's worked so far.
You do let mom wash them ... right?
Oh yes. I don't go that far.
Describe the difference for you between the backstroke and freestyle - both of which you excel at?
To me, swimming is 100 percent mental. The 200 free is the hardest race. The distance race (500 free) you pace. You really have to know when to turn it on (in 200). The backstroke is all about getting psyched.
When did you realize you were good at the backstroke?
When I was about 12. The 50 backstroke was always favorite. It still is with the (medley) relay.
What opponent gives you the most fits in the pool?
Eric Naylor. I got really psyched up for meets with Dover. In the state, there are two people I couldn't choose between the two. David Nolan (Hershey) and Trevor Scheid (Shady Side Academy, who won the 200 free at states).
Is the water ever too cold?
Oh yeah. I swam in a meet two years ago in the summer and I honestly could not feel my legs. I had a horrible meet. But then again, it can't be too hot either. You just get too tired then.
You swim a lot with school and even more so with club team, ever get sick of the pool?
Yep, (time off) is what I enjoying right now. It is kind of like a love-hate relationship. I am sure if you asked any swimmer they'd be the same way. But, it's your sport, you have to keep going on.
People think you are the goofy one on your team. Is that true?
I would say Ben (Appleby) is probably the silliest. Harry is the more serious one. Harry doesn't really talk, I will talk to anyone before a race. I am pretty relaxed.
After watching you swim and win championships for three years I want to give you a nickname. How does K-Mar grab you?
Some people have actually called me that before. If that's what you want to call me I don't care. It hasn't really stuck before.
How many colleges are calling?
They can't call yet, not until July 1. There is e-mail and mail now. I am overwhelmed with the process. I know I want good academics and good swimming.
If you didn't swim, what other sport would you play?
I don't know because I am not good at anything else. If I didn't swim, I'd play water polo. If I was a bigger kid, I'd say football or something with contact. With my build, it wouldn't go over well.
Who is your role model?
Brett Favre. I am a huge Packers fan. I was bummed when he retired.
But, Favre might come back
That would be my great. My dad and I went to Lambeau, it was great.
Swimmers are these awesome athletes that never eat junk food ... right?
To be honest, my nutrition is one of the worst in the state. My mom yells at me all the time - "What do you eat?" I love soda and love ice cream. I will eat at Burger King, two Whopper meals during weekend meets. I eat a lot. Now, I shouldn't be doing that since I am not swimming. ... I am not a protein bar type of guy.
What is your favorite activity outside of the pool?
If with friends, playing X-box. If by myself, playing guitar. I started playing (guitar) two years ago. Started taking lessons, but don't have the time. I am not a rock star, but I can play a tune I guess.
What is favorite school subject?
Chemistry. It is weird. I like the teacher and just like the course.
What do you do that drives your parents crazy?
(He pauses to ask Mom) I am trying to pick out one thing. They are going to go with messy room and clothes being everywhere. Mom yells the hamper is two inches away.
I hope for your sake older brother Dan wasn't a neat freak
No, Dan is just like me, but now that he is gone (at college), I am under the microscope.
What would you like to be doing 10 years from now?
I don't know, completely. Chemistry or business. I am a people person.
Favorite food?
Cake, vanilla cake.
Movie?
"Eurotrip."
Musical artist?
Weezer
Song?
"Say It Ain't So" by Weezer
TV show?
"Two and a Half Men"
