The Mater Dei Swim Team is looking forward to big successes this spring season. The team has been Trinity League Champions for three years in a row, and is hoping for another big win this year.

Aleko Culp, a senior and fourth year swimmer, advises swimmers to try their best in weight-lifting.

“This year we’re pushing the freshmen,” Culp said. “I think it’s… probably helped a lot.”

Culp made it clear that, although many people think swimming is an individual sport, it’s actually a team sport because of how your times and attitudes affect your teammates.

For the Monarch swim team, positivity is key. Kelsey West, Sophomore Class Captain of the swim team emphasized that they are not just individuals that practice together, but a close-knit team.

“We’re a family and we have to treat each other that way,” West said. “We should always do our best to push our boundaries, swim faster, set new goals and to push each other to reach those goals.”

Not only is the swim team comprised of swimmers, but it is also made up of supportive team moms. The team moms are always making sure that the swimmers are prepared for their races. They provide food and drinks at every meet and give swimmers encouraging words.

Ken Dory, Head Coach of the Swim Team, said the most important thing is for his athletes to focus on improving their times and how they can help others on the team.

“To not focus on their times, to think about their teammates and what they’re doing, focus on their racing, and keep a positive attitude,” said Dory.