Feature Photo By: Langston Kelly – Vista Peak swimmer Gracey Loucks works on her kicking during an afternoon practice using a kickboard. Kickboards are used to strengthen a swimmer’s legs and are typically used on butterfly kicks and breaststrokes.
Last season, the girls swim team went undefeated in leagues, a feat unaccomplished in previous seasons. They almost ended at the very top, but placed second in the EMAC Conference, the highest placement achieved in Rangeview’s recent history. This year, they are aiming to go even higher – a first place spot is their goal.
The team is under the direction of Peter Girard, who will be going on his 12th year as coach. He is optimistic about the season, acknowledging that last year was a step in the right direction for the Raiders.
“Last year was a huge step up for us. We went undefeated and we went to leagues and we took second place but by half a point so it was very exciting for the girls,” stated Coach Girard. “It really kind of lit a fire in a number of the freshmen from last year.”
Despite losing half of the swimmers from the previous season, Coach Girard believes that the loss will be to their benefit.
Girard said, “It really motivates the upperclassmen because a number of the new swimmers coming in are competitive swimmers. So it’s really a motivator because they’re challenging for the upperclassmen spot.”
When asked about what was worked on over the summer, a number of the swimmers stated that they worked on their endurance the most.
“I swim distance, so I worked on my endurance,” said senior captain Emily Haag. She will be going on her fourth year as a varsity swimmer.
Although Coach Girard says the season will be promising, many members of the team realize that there is still some dust to knock off from the offseason.
According to junior captain Peyton Bogue, “We’re all a little slow right now but its gonna kick up after the holidays.”
The team will swim their first meet this Thursday here at Rangeview against Gateway at 4:30. To keep up with the rest of their schedule, visit here.
