Faced off against Blue Valley Northwest and Shawnee Mission South Thursday, April 2, the girls swim team scored 114 points, finishing in last place at the Shawnee Mission Aquatic Center.
Commenting on the team’s performance, junior Janey Liby attributes low team numbers and the absence of divers as major hindrances to their performance.
“For the numbers that we had, I think we did really well,” Liby said. “We didn’t have anyone to participate in the diving events, which I think probably affected our overall performance. But for the events we did do, we finished strong, and I think we all did so well.”
Despite the results, the meet still featured exceptional individual accomplishments. Senior Claire Cooper placed first in both the 200-yard individual medley and first in the 100-yard backstroke. However, Cooper says there is still room for improvement.
“I’m proud of myself for placing, but the times at the meet weren’t what I wanted,” Cooper said. “I know I have a lot to improve on, and I’m ready to work with my team to keep getting better both individually and as a whole.”
As the season continues, Liby emphasizes a focus on growth, particularly in relay events.
“I think we all could have improved in relays,” Liby said. “But overall, I think we just need to stay strong. Especially as things get harder the further we get into the season, we all need to push to improve as much as we can.”
Reinforcing that focus on improvement, Cooper outlines specific goals for both herself and the team as the season progresses.
“Once we’ve gotten more into the season, I hope I, as well as some of my teammates, can get state qualifying times,” Cooper said. “For me, I want to get qualifying times in both the 100-yard backstroke and the 200-yard individual medley. From there, I want to place in the top eight in our relays.”
Even after early challenges, the team remains focused on individual growth and improvement as they look forward.
