After the boys’ swim team competed in the first day of Sections Feb. 20, senior and captain Will Mathews said he was very satisfied by the team’s performance.

“They put some amazing times on the board, I couldn’t be prouder,” Mathews said. “They started off day one where they need to be. They need to set the tone (and) they did that.”

According to coach Amanda Forsberg, the purpose of the first day of Sections is for the top 16 swimmers from all the schools in the section in each event to separate themselves from the rest of the swimmers. Forsberg said 16 out of the 18 swimmers who swam on the first day from Park qualified for day two, as many swimmers dropped their times.

“I’m very proud of how the (swimmers) did,” Forsberg said. “They all did very well, they all dropped a ton of time.”

According to freshman Denly Lindeman, who qualified for day two, he was satisfied with the team’s performance. 

“I’m super impressed with (how) the team did,” Lindeman said. “Everyone did fabulously, it was really amazing.”

One of the highlights of the night for Park was junior Hayden Zheng winning the 200-yard medley and 100-yard freestyle events, and according to Mathews, the best of Zheng is yet to come.

“For him, that was his warm-up,” Mathews said. “Day two, he’s got some records to break and he will do it.

According to sophomore Zachary Nathan, the swimmers’ all swam their hardest, but these efforts left the team exhausted.

“I think everyone’s a little tired,” Nathan said. “Everyone is happy with their performance, but everyone swam their hearts out, so everyone’s happy but tired.”

Mathews said the key to keeping the team focused through the fatigue is showing constant support for teammates throughout the meet.

“The little talks before going down to the race, I’ve always loved that and I feel like it’s a great way to really connect,” Mathews said. “Cheering at the side of the pool, never underestimate the power of that.”

The second day of Sections will take place at 1 p.m. Feb. 21 at Southview Middle School.