A season to remember
Mercy’s Swim, and Dive Team celebrates their victory at State Championships at Oakland University. (Photo taken with permission from: Francesca Schena.)Mercy’s Swim, and Dive Team celebrates their victory at State Championships at Oakland University. (Photo taken with permission from: Francesca Schena.)Mercy’s Swim, and Dive Team celebrates their victory at State Championships at Oakland University. (Photo taken with permission from: Francesca Schena.)
Senior Alexa Rybicki’s heart beats rapidly as her teammates wrap their arms around each other. They stand on the deck across the the pool as they anticipate which school will be awarded the state championship title. Suddenly, the announcer says “Mercy High School for state championships.” Rybicki is stunned and jumps up and down with her teammates as the parents and supporters in the crowd cheer. Some swimmers and parents cry tears of joy as they celebrate their victory.
This was certainly a successful season for Mercy’s Swim and Dive team. The team ended the season winning both State Championships and Catholic Leagues. After a long, four-month season, all their hard work and determination finally paid off.
“The season went really well for the team as a whole,” said senior Abby Gowen. “There were some bumps in the road, but the outcome of the season was great.”
The team endured long and strenuous practices both in the pool and on dry land. Swimmers woke up extra early before school for 6 a.m.practices and stayed after school for another practice. Practices could be long and exhausting, but teammates motivated each other to keep on swimming.
“My teammates got me through the season,” said Gowen. “They push me to work hard and make the season what it is.”
With a packed schedule, swimmers learn to manage their time productively and efficiently. With school, homework, and practices, there is no time for procrastination.
“I have to make sure I have minimal distractions,” said junior Francesca Schena. “I try to get most of my work done during off hours, so I can at least sleep a little bit.”
Swimmers not only have to adjust their schedules during the season, but they must alter their diet. They have to eat more protein and carbs to make sure they have enough fuel for practices, according to sophomore Kathryn Leonard.With 10 practices a week, meets, and team bonding activities, members of the Swim and Dive Team spend lots of time together, bringing them closer.
“This was a great season,” said Schena. “It was definitely a season to remember.”