Poolside chat with Michael Phelps' mom

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps had to pull out of the U.S. Swimming National Championships Friday because of a sore neck. Friday afternoon, Phelps' mother discussed the injury and her connection to Indianapolis.

"I think he just slept wrong on his neck," Debbie Phelps laughed. "He woke up with a little ache in his neck. It's better to be cautious than try to push it. He had a great swim last night and so, the 100 free today, he was looking forward to it, but as I always told him...there will be another opportunity."

Since Michael Phelps' phenomenal eight gold medal streak in the Beijing Olympics, Debbie Phelps has written a book titled, "A Mother For all Seasons".

The book is a gritty tale about her divorce, Michael's ADHD and her daughter's eating disorder.

But this week, there was good news. Michael was in a Subway commercial.

"Subway, eat fresh...love Subway. I can't wait to meet Jared's mom, that's going to be wonderful," said Debbie.

What wasn't so wonderful was the picture of Michael with a pot pipe, snapped after the Olympics. Debbie took it in stride. She prefers to concentrate on the positive and a lot of that has to do with the IU Natatorium starting in 1994 at the World Championships.

"We have so many memorable experiences at that natatorium over there and this city, it's just phenomenal. We just love coming in here, it's a great town and we enjoy it so much as a family," Debbie.

You can meet Debbie Phelps Saturday at one o'clock at the IUPUI Barnes and Noble Bookstore, where she'll be signing her books.