A trip to the pool and splashing in the water—it’s a core summer memory. Some people like to bring that into the winter, too. The swimming and diving team does just that. This team is about connection, improvement, and family. It stands for more than just the meets in which it competes. The swimming and diving team comes in many forms; all kinds of people are found on it. There is a good variety of swimmers, both new and experienced, and together they are working to make an amazing season.
When thinking about jumping into a pool, what is the first thing that comes to mind? A common concern might be the temperature—whether it’s cold, hot, or just right. Even though it’s a common question, it’s not what really matters. What matters is the love and support teammates show each other. Even though the water was warm, the atmosphere was warmer. “I really like the atmosphere of the team, and just like the overall meet atmosphere, the team gets. And also, honestly, making practice is just really fun,” said Daniel Zagrevin, a Lakewood High School junior. A team with this much good spirit and vibe is something that is not found everywhere. They are passionate about swimming and diving, and it shows.
From the stands, the swim team’s camaraderie and family atmosphere are easy to see. Their bond was more than apparent. With the speakers blasting in the locker room, some boys stretching, and the girls chatting away, this is no ordinary team. Part of what makes the team so special and connected is the seniors. They are what define the team, and with it being their last year, they feel a special connection. Grace Lowmiller, a Lakewood High School senior, said, “It’s definitely more sentimental. But honestly, so far, it is kind of like every other year. It’s definitely like, got like, I feel like in charge because I’m a senior. Like this is my fourth year.”
Lowmiller originally joined the team to earn her two physical education credits, but she has stuck with it for her whole high school career. That is a testament to the team’s bond and warm atmosphere, which they radiate. The seniors have a sense of ownership and pride that no one else on the team carries. Lowmiller also convinced one of her good friends, Cora Barcelona, to join. “I’ve had so much fun… It’s nice to have hype music in the locker rooms, and it’s just been a good week of learning technique and building on skills,” Barcelona said. For someone with only previous swimming experience from her earlier years, being able to join a team and instantly enjoy it is rare. When it happens, it’s a positive sign.
The swimming and diving team is a family that constantly invites people to join, not only first-time freshmen but also first-time seniors. Luci Robbins, a first-time senior diver, was inspired to join the team by her friend. Though she may have had some fear at the beginning, the environment she entered was the best she could have wished for. Robbins said, “Everyone was welcoming with open arms, especially the coaches… they were all supporting and accepting of any and all talent.” Not only do new members have the joy of joining the team, but they also help create an environment that encourages everyone, regardless of talent. That’s what makes the swimming and diving team such a family—everyone feels welcome and comfortable enough to be themselves without judgment.
It’s encouraging but also challenging. “In order to compete in meets, you have to have 10 tricks and techniques,” Robbins said as she prepared to compete in her first meet. While the environment is supportive, there is also a standard that team members must meet. This combination of a healthy environment and healthy competition is what makes the team even stronger.
In all sports, it can be hard to find the motivation to keep going. With long practices and homework afterward, staying committed can be challenging. Coach Patricia O’Donnell is proud of how her coaching staff and each team member can maintain high spirits and sometimes hard-to-find commitment. They work hard at their craft, but they also have some fun along the way. O’Donnell said, “When you achieve a personal record, you get a banana. Each year, a favorite freshman is picked. Every away meet, we dump a jar of our home pool water into the pool before warmup. And one time, the swimmers snuck in about 100 tiny ducks into the pool, and they just randomly appeared floating around.” It’s traditions, rituals, and fun events like these that keep the team going. Practices, meets, and training can all be tough. But knowing the team has coaches who support them, believe in them, and who will make their experience fun—that’s what leads a team to success.
Not only is the atmosphere shaped by the coaches, but also by team members, both new and old. Mikayla Jaissle, a junior swimmer and diver, praises her team’s support. Jaissle said, “…you know your team is there for your highest of highs and lowest of lows.” Competition can be stressful, regardless of skill level. Knowing that they can perform—and no matter what happens, they will have a support system behind them—is the basis of what makes the swimming and diving team so successful.
The swimming and diving team is like no other. It brings together people of all talents and abilities, making them feel at home. This team isn’t just a team; it’s a family built on support, happiness, and success.
