Fresh off a stunning first place performance at the tri-meet against Affton and Kennedy, the CHS girls’ swimming team is building momentum as districts inch nearer and nearer.
The swim team is making tremendous strides from last year when CHS had just one swimmer make it to state with then-freshman Danielle Sikora. They have already won several meets, and several players are close to making state times this year. Senior Julia Grasse is nearing the benchmark for state qualifying in backstroke, as Sikora could potentially qualify in several events. The team is also edging towards the cut in the 200-meter relay.
However, some credit for the girls’ success in the swim tank should be given to Coach Katelyn Long.
“Coach Long has prepared us for meets by teaching us new skills in practice that we can work on throughout the season to improve on,” junior Dana Schwartz said.
In addition to technique, the team also works on strength and conditioning outside the swim pool.
To prepare for meets, Sikora said, “We work on abs and shoulder strengthening alternating days to keep us in good shape outside the water to prevent shoulder injuries.”
Highlights from this year include the girls’ first-place victories at the University City and the tri-meet along with a strong third-place performance at the Ladue Invitational.
The team’s strong mid-season performance at the meets is hopefully a prerequisite for districts in February when the team makes their push to qualify for state.
Hopefully, the team can rely on captains Grasse and Emma Vierod for senior leadership, particularly in the relays. Senior leadership is key, especially for underclassmen who are not as experienced at swimming in high-pressure events such as districts.
Down the stretch, being able to gain momentum and working to improve will be key for a strong performance at districts. Schwartz sees this 2012 swimming squad as a “much stronger team that is constantly working hard to improve.”