Peter Vanderkaay speaks at 'Won't Back Down' advance screening

By RYAN ERMANNI
MyFox Detroit Reporter

ROYAL OAK, Mich. (MyFox Detroit) -- Rochester native and 2012 bronze medal winner in the London Olympics in swimming, Peter Vanderkaay was on hand at the Emagine Theatre in Royal Oak to introduce the advance screening of the movie "Won't Back Down".

The film has a powerful story of hope, courage and determination, something Vanderkaay knows about.

"It wasn't until I had some success on the national level that I thought I had the chance to compete internationally, and once kind of that fire got lit, I was really fired up about it and passionate about swimming, so it was almost like I had built myself into that position."

Like the movie, the hometown hero was faced with situations that he had to battle through along the way to accomplish his dream and said he had a particular trait that has helped him get there.

"I think I'm probably just really stubborn," he explained.  "Being competitive and just wanting to improve and try and reach my goals, I think that's what's driven me the past couple years."

Even though Vanderkaay isn't in the movie, his story is similar to the one of the screen, and when he spoke to the sold out audience, he delivered this message.

"It's going to be about goals and following your dreams and goals, so I can kind of relate with a sports story.  Hopefully that will resonate with them."

"Won't Back Down" opens in theaters nationwide on September 28.  It is inspired by real people and true events.  The goal is to inspire parents to be involved in their children's education.