Junior Jonas Johnson pulls out of the water while doing breaststroke in the Boys 200 Individual Medley Finals. (Joshua Strydom)
The Central Rams swim team has had a great season, performing well at many of their meets. All of their hard work payed off with their well-earned victory at State. Over the weekend of February 12th-14th, both the boys’ and girls’ took home State Titles. The Rams won both overall and in the relays. This is the seventh consecutive year that the girls’ team has won State and the sixth year that the boys’ team has won overall at State. Central also dominated the scores in their personal events such as freestyle and distance.
However, the stress was definitely high before State. Prior to State, freshman swimmer Alana Metcalf talked about how she was feeling and mentioned, “I am feeling good but a little nervous because going to state as a freshman is a lot of pressure.” After, she described it as a good and fun experience. “It was the best experience of my freshman year, and I am super excited to do it next year.” Metcalf has had a great season overall and is excited to continue improving next season. Metcalf competed in the 50m freestyle and 100m breaststroke. She swam her best times all year.
Freshman Lauren Kimmet accelerates down the lane during the Girls 200 Freestyle Finals. (Joshua Strydom)
Freshman Lauren Kimmet also did exceptionally well at State, winning second in both of her events. She mentioned that the nerves hit the worst in the ready room, where the swimmers wait for their heat. However, once the swimmers hit the water, all that is left is to focus on the race. She took part in the 200m freestyle and the 500m freestyle. She did very well overall, only losing by half of a second. Kimmet will also return next year with the goal of getting first place at State.
For many of the swimmers, this season was very enjoyable and has made many of the underclassmen look forward to next year. The swim team did great overall this season and hopes to continue their streak next season.
