On Feb. 13, the Park girls synchronized swimming team invited students interested in joining the sport to attend their informational meeting. Members discussed season goals, addressed schedule changes and welcomed new and prospective members. The team focused on incorporating elements to enhance member satisfaction and make practices more enjoyable.
Junior captain Lydia Welsch said the sport of synchronized swimming can be described as a blend of artistic grace and athleticism. She said the activity involves elements of both dance and gymnastics, making it a unique and entertaining pastime.
“Synchronized swimming is a really fun water sport where we do a mix of dance and gymnastics in the water,” Welsch said. “It’s a mix between an art and a sport, which makes it very special and fun.”
Freshman Isabella Harper, now in her second year on the synchronized swimming team, said her favorite memories come from bonding events, such as pre-meet gatherings where teammates help each other apply water-resistant gel to their hair. She said she appreciates being able to confide in her teammates and cherishes the time they spend together.
“(My favorite moments were) probably the team sleepovers and the gelling parties,” Harper said. “(I liked those moments because) I could ask for advice from my teammates, which I love, and we always have a lot of fun with each other.”
Head coach and Park synchronized swimming alum Carolyn Guddal said achieving success in synchronized swimming requires dedication and countless hours in the pool. However, she said once swimmers master the basics, they can create incredibly impressive routines.
“Synchro is very effortful,” Guddal said. “Watching that process is like watching folks go from an instrument where you have to squeak and squawk for a little bit before you start making music, and then eventually it is really beautiful, once you’re able to put the fundamental skills to practice.”
Harper said synchronized swimming can be mentally challenging because it relies on artistry and execution, creating significant pressure on athletes.
“(Synchronized swimming) can sometimes take a mental toll, because it’s an artistic sport where you want to perform well,” Harper said. “It takes a lot of focus and control.”
According to Welsch, the team is very welcoming to newcomers and eager to add new members. She said there are no restrictions on joining synchronized swimming, and members can get their money back if they end up disliking the sport.
“I would recommend joining synchronized swimming. We love when new people join, and we are very welcoming and fun. Even if you join (and end up not liking it), you can still quit and get a full refund in the first two weeks,” Welsch said.
Guddal said she encourages interested swimmers to try the sport. She said trying out synchronized swimming could reveal an outlet for connection and empowerment, even if it is not for everyone.
“What’s the worst thing that can happen? If you don’t like it, the worst case scenario (is) you stop, right?” Guddal said. “But (if you join), you might find not only a sport that you love and that makes you feel powerful in your body, but also a network and a community that lifts you up and makes you feel awesome.”
Synchronized swimming practices will begin the week of Mar. 2.
