When sophomore varsity swimmer Luke Anderson reflects on the boys’ swim team’s invite at University of Minnesota, he thought the team improved on performance in the pool and inclusion throughout the team.

According to Anderson, the team placed fifth overall at its invite this past Saturday. He said the team’s outcome at the invite exceeded his expectations.

“I think we did better than what we were expecting. We had a lot of fun because almost everyone was dropping time,” Anderson said. “I think overall, including everyone and just giving a lot of support (has improved).”

Head coach Amanda Forsberg said she feels proud of the team’s fast times demonstrated so far this year.

“Coming off of winter break is some of the best times we’ve seen all season and we’re very happy, very impressed. A lot swimmers dropped time,” Forsberg said. “Especially for the newer group and the younger swimmers they just keep dropping (time) which is fun to see.”

Forsberg said she also loves the enthusiasm the older swimmers bring to the team.

“My upperclassmen did a good job of getting the guys excited and ready to go, and we saw some phenomenal times at Jefferson and it was a lot of fun to watch and just be a part of.” Forsberg said.

According to senior captain Nate Stone, younger members of the team played a big role in the success of the meet.

“Honestly, a lot of underclassmen have really stepped up,” Stone said. “We see guys who kind of sat in the background coming forward and pulling in those extra points. Us winning the meet on Thursday was because of those guys.”

Anderson said the new swimmers on the team this year continue to overcome challenges that make the team stronger.

“Half the team is new this year, so (it’s been challenging) getting to know everyone so we can work as a team in the meets,” Anderson said. “I still don’t know everyone on the team super well, so talking more in practices with people you don’t know as well is a way to solve that.”

The team’s next meet will take place 5 p.m. Jan. 10 at Park against St. Paul Academy and Summit School.