PREVIEW: Swim team prepares to dive into a promising season

With a strong freshman class and improved returners, both the boys and girls swim teams have high expectations for this season. Senior captain Alexander Bayles, along with many other swimmers, have been preparing for the past few months. The team aspires to be significantly better this year than in years past.

“Last season we placed 23rd at state which is horrible,” Bayles said. “But this season we’ve got some really good freshman and everyone else is just better. We also have Evan back on the team from being injured last year.”

With a more dedicated senior class, the boys team hopes to improve their rank. Sophomore Jackson Hanus believes the strong senior class will significantly help out the team.

“The seniors last year were fun, but they weren’t on the grind,” Hanus said. “We have a lot of seniors this year who are really committed to our team, so I think that we’re going to do a lot better.”

The team practices every day after school by training in the pool for around two hours and lifting afterwards. There are two morning practices a week for everyone from 5:30-7:00 a.m., and some swimmers practice an additional two days, totaling 4 morning practices.

“We have high hopes for the season. We want a state title. We want to get first, but that’s pretty optimistic. I would like to get at least top three at state,” Bayles said.

As far as the girl’s team, they’re looking forward to a successful season as well. Many girls, including junior Anna DeSordi, have also been practicing in the off season.

“Most varsity girls practice through a club called Swim Omaha, running from the end of high school season in March to the beginning of high school season in November,” DeSordi said.

Although some strong seniors have left the girl’s team, there is no doubt that freshman and returners will be able to help the team bounce back.

“I guess the biggest thing is teamwork. Even though it is an individual sport, relays count for more points than an individual event,” DeSordi said. “When we cheer for each other, everyone does better.”

Both teams will continue working hard, especially for their meet against their rival Creighton Prep on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

“Its hunting season, and bluejays are on the menu,” Hanus said. “Burke is also looking good with their relay team, but we’re on the grind.”

Junior Evan Thorell, who wasn’t able to swim last year due to an injury, is ready and excited to reignite his high school swimming career.

“If the word quit is part of your vocabulary then the word finish is not,” Thorell said.

With these high hopes, the teams need support from students. Come out and cheer on the swim teams this season!