Eric Shanteau

American swimmer Eric Shanteau qualified for his first Olympic games in July 2008. Despite being diagnosed with testicular cancer just before the Olympic trials, Shanteau won a spot on the U.S. team in the 200-meter breaststroke.¹

Fast Facts

1. Full name: Eric Lee Shanteau
2. Born: October 1, 1983
3. Hometown: Lilburn, Georgia
4. Height: 6'1"
5. 11-time All American²
6. June 19, 2008: Diagnosed with testicular cancer³
7. July 3, 2008: Qualified for the U.S. Olympic swimming team²
8. Finished second in the men's 200-meter breaststroke⁴
9. College: Auburn University²

Cancer Diagnosis

One week before he was to leave for the 2008 Olympic trials, Eric Shanteau learned he had testicular cancer. Shanteau secured a spot on the Olympic team with a second place finish in the men's 200-meter breaststroke.³ Shanteau's doctors recommended he have surgery immediately, but Shanteau opted to wait until after he competes in the Beijing games. Shanteau says if it appears the cancer is spreading, he will withdraw from competition.¹

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