Swim Team: Gliding into a Smooth Season

By Cameron Thornton, Staff Writer

// The Acalanes swim team is off to a strong start this season as they aim to improve on last year’s performances. 

   The Dons dominated in their meet against College Park on Feb. 28 with the girls’ team winning all events. The team competed against Northgate and Ygnacio Valley on March 6, resulting in a split of wins and losses in the races. 

   Athletes of all grade levels have contributed to the overall success of the team, and will undoubtedly continue to do so as the season progresses.

   “We’ve seen some impressive performances from athletes across all grades. Senior leaders like Parker Etnyre and Cale Hanson on the boy's side, and Taryn Veronda and Brooklyn Plomp on the girl's side. Underclassmen like Ella Del Rosario, Audrey Martin, and Anna Motes are also doing really well so far,” head coach Brett Usinger said. 

   The Dons traveled to southern California for the Mission Viejo Invitational meet on Mar 16 where they battled fierce competition, facing teams from across the state. The Dons came in fifth place overall and experienced success with multiple athletes advancing to the finals in their respective events. 

   “[Mission Viejo] is a competitive, high-profile meet, and it has become a tradition for the Acalanes team to attend. It’s an amazing opportunity for our athletes to swim fast and have 3 days out of town to bond and enjoy the sunshine,” Usinger said. 

   The Mission Viejo meet was not only an opportunity to participate in a highly competitive meet, but it also served as a valuable bonding experience for athletes on the team. Members of the team were able to spend quality time together, building positive relationships and becoming closer to their teammates. 

   As the team progresses through the rest of the season, they work towards achieving their ultimate goals.  

   “Our goal this year is to meet or exceed our finish at DAL last year (3rd place) and qualify as many athletes for NCS and State as possible. We’re off to a strong start towards both of these goals,” Usinger said.