Based on team stats, the girls’ Swim and Dive Co-op program in Oswego is one of the most successful athletic programs in the community. Composed of students from both OE and OH, the team aims to maintain its impressive record this season.
“Last season was amazing. We had multiple individual placements at state along with both of our relays progressing to the state finals. We even were the combined state champions,” said OH senior Ella Cagle.
Just like many sports at the beginning of their seasons, the swim team also struggles to deal with the reality of starting without last year’s seniors they’ve been used to having in the water. People they once may have relied on are no longer competing with them, so one main concern is how they will compensate for the loss.
“We have to work harder this season since our best seniors graduated and we now have to fill their shoes and keep our reputation for winning invite meets and duel meets. I don’t have any concerns for the team because I know we’re going to do great and continuously cheer each other on,” said OE senior Mya Pheneger.
At the end of Sept., the team had one of their first chances to test the waters with the new season. At the Mustang Invite in Downers Grove, the co-op placed second with three gold placements, one silver placement, and 3 bronze placements. The Invite gave the team a promising start to their season.
A big part of the beginning of the season is about adjustment. With old talent gone and new athletes coming in, the team needs to pivot to meet both their needs and their strengths.
“Every season seems so different after we lose people and gain others, but I think we do a good job of adjusting and doing our best with what we have,” said OH senior Delaney Reilly.
Despite their uniquely impressive record, the girls’ Swim and Dive Co-Op values many of the same qualities as other sports. Between long practices and taxing meets, the team’s morale is an important factor in their success.
“This season, practices have been evolving and the team has become so much more positive this year. Everyone is friendly to one another no matter what. It is especially fun because everyone cheers for each other with an obnoxious volume at every meet,” said Cagle.
By the end of last season, the team was ranked 12th in the state, and with their current ranking of 45th they still have some work to do, but between their recent positive experience in Downers Grove and the new outlook they have for the season, the team may be looking at another impressive year.
I am a senior at OH and so excited to be a Managing and Opinions Section Editor this year! I love working on 42Fifty, but I am also very involved in band and numerous honor societies here. Looking forward to doing great work this year!
