The Park boys’ swim team has high hopes this year, as it is aiming to take the conference title after missing out the last few years, according to swim coach Amanda Forsberg.

“I would like to try to win the conference this year, we haven’t done that for a couple years. That would be a really good goal for us,” Forsberg said.  

According to Forsberg, the team will try to improve from last season as a team and individually.

“We got a relay to State, I would like to build on that. (Also) Hayden (Zheng) won his two individual events,” Forsberg said. “I’m hoping to get a bigger contingent to State this year.”

Co-captain and senior Will Mathews said he wants to focus on making sure the team is optimistic at meets, especially with the younger swimmers.

“Positivity is a huge part in between sets (and) before races,” Mathews said. “Providing that support is crucial. I’ve been there as a middle schooler and I know that it can make a huge difference.”

Forsberg said this year the team will have to overcome the losses of 2019 graduates Luke Anderson and Max Mechtold, who, according to Forsberg, were both very important members of the team.

“Luke Anderson and Max Bechtold were an integral part of that team. They’re leaving behind a legacy of what it means to be part of the team,” Forsberg said. “The boys this year will continue on how they carry themselves, how they act in another pool.”

According to Mathews, these previous losses won’t be a setback for the team performance-wise.

“(I’m) pretty sure this is going to be one of our fastest years,” Mathews said. “I know it’s probably going to be the fastest year I’ve seen in all my years on the team.” 

Park will open its season against St. Paul Highland Park at 5:15 p.m. Dec. 5 at the St. Louis Park High School Pool.