Helena Prusak ’23
Sem swimming is enjoying a very successful season. In terms of overall records, the girls team was 9-1, and the boys team was 7-3. While both teams are extremely successful on paper, many of their strengths come from how bonded the team is. Claire Stretanski ‘23, one of the captains, says, “I think our biggest success is how supportive we are of each other. We are always cheering for each other during races, whether we are losing or winning. We acknowledge each other’s success no matter how small.”
The captains of the swim team are Claire Stretanski, Cara McCall ‘23, Ryleigh Collins ‘23, Zhantore Akyelbekov ‘24, and Harry Feng ‘24. They work together to foster a welcoming and supportive environment while also organizing team events.
Harry Feng ‘24 says, “My favorite part about being a captain is working with new and returning swimmers, and also improving and doing well at meets. Everyone who has joined the team this season has really improved since the beginning of the year. I’m really proud of them.”
A recent event hosted by the swim team was their senior night. This was an opportunity to recognize the seniors’ accomplishments and contributions to the team. Stretanski said, “[It] was very emotional, but we loved spending time together and enjoying our last moments as a team.”
One of the biggest events during the season was the Ernie Shartle Invitational in Tunkhannock. It was also an opportunity to beat a lot of personal times, and was one of the team’s biggest accomplishments.
Assistant Coach Julia Baur says, “Going into districts and even Shartle, everyone is right around their best times, or swimming even faster than they were around this time last year.” The team’s success can be accredited to their hard work and dedication.
The team’s connection certainly helps as well. Claire says, “Sem swimming has a unique bond because of the nature of our sport. The connections we form will last a lifetime.”
The swim team is currently preparing for districts and states. They still have a lot of time left in the season to beat personal times and break even more records. Make sure to continue supporting the swim team!