Girls’ swimming perseveres despite COVID-19 challenges
Team practices encouragement during unprecedented times
Senior Maddy Doherty helps her teammate out during the JV 500 freestyle race by putting signs into the water Sept. 15. The signs let the swimmer know how many laps they have completed.
September 22, 2020
Park won its first swim meet of the season against Bloomington Jefferson 49-42 Sept. 15. After adjustments to the regulations at meets and practices, including zero spectators and masks on the pool deck, the team had many obstacles starting its season.
According to senior captain Lily Metzler, the team has been handling the new limits well.
“It was our first meet with the new COVID-19 restrictions, so we were kind of getting used to that, but we made the most of it, it was really fun,” Metzler said.
Senior captain Gabbie Kruse said that it has been a challenge to adjust to the new COVID-19 restrictions at meets, but the parents and teammates are doing their best to make it enjoyable.
“At meets, there are no spectators, which dulls the energy, but the parents have been really good,” Kruse said. “We have a soundtrack with cheers on it, so it sounds louder than it actually is.”
Metzler said the team found a way to keep up the energy and drive throughout the meet. The new swimmers did a good job of using the techniques they learned at practice.
“I feel like we did really well with our motivation throughout the meet. Considering it’s our first meet and we have a lot of new swimmers, it was kind of fun to see them use all the skills we have been working on in practice and put them into motion,” Metzler said.
According to assistant coach Lily Rostal, the team is trying their best to focus on bringing up the skill level in practice.
“We are working on breakouts, making sure starts and making sure technique is perfect,” Rostal said. “I know it can be hard because they are split up into groups this season.”
“It’s been kind of a hassle just to get used to it and get everything organized especially because the junior high pool isn’t ready for us to use yet,” Metzler said.
According to Kruse, the separation of the team at practices has been a difficult adjustment, but they are finding a way to feel connected as a team.
“It’s a little tough because we are split up, so we don’t get to see everyone each week,” Kruse said. “But people are making the best of it and are just trying to have fun with the group.”
Park will have its next meet at 6 p.m. Sept. 24 against Benilde St. Margaret’s at home.
