After losing eight seniors, swim team members are ready to step forward and take on new challenges, according to coach Joe Yaeger.

Yaeger said the team dynamic will shift because of the loss of many seniors who were stellar performers. He said he looks forward to watching the team step up to the challenge.

“We have a handful of junior high girls coming in. I am excited to see the girls step up and take senior roles,” Yaeger said. “There will be more pressure and higher expectations but I expect to see great competition and effort.”

Senior Paige Pinneke said she anticipates challenges from the loss of seniors as well.

“Losing so many seniors is really going to make our younger members step up since we lost a lot of good seniors,” Pinneke said. “It’s going to push everyone to do their best and swim in events that they otherwise wouldn’t swim in.”

Junior Kailey DeLozier said she believes the team’s loss will only push it harder.

“Some of our team goals are definitely to survive the season and compete well throughout the season, especially at sections,” DeLozier said. “We are expecting to place top three in the conference behind Chaska and Chanhassen.”

Pinneke said she believes positivity will help the team thrive throughout the season.

“Supporting each other and having a good attitude during our meets and staying together throughout the season will help us be better as a team,” Pinneke said.

Yaeger said he looks forward to seeing how the girls have improved during their offseason.

“I am excited to see where the girls are at competitively and to see where people are at because I know many people have been swimming for club teams and doing strength and conditioning,” Yaeger said.

Swimmers have been preparing by cross training, running and swimming, according to DeLozier.

“To prepare for the season I have been practicing almost everyday and on some days I will do doubles. I also weight lift everyday,” DeLozier said.

Pinneke said she also prepares for the season by doing cardio.

“I have been running trying to get my stamina up and weight lifting to get stronger for the season,” Pinneke said.

The team’s first meet will take place 6 p.m. Sept. 1 at Spring Lake Park.