Swimmers dive into new year
SWIM A larger team made of mostly freshman sets goals to go above and beyond what the previous year’s lineup achieved in league, state.
March 16, 2016
The sound of swimmers gliding through the pool lanes were present after school, as members of Diamond Bar High School’s swim team worked through practice in preparation for the upcoming season.
This year, head coach Darlys Ankeny is confident in the ability of her students, especially with another group of skilled freshmen added to the team. She is hoping for the boys team to achieve first in league once again, and for the girls to improve upon last year’s third place finish.
The team’s first meet was on March 5 in which all the schools in the Palomares League competed with league relays. Afterwards, the Brahmas had their first dual meet on March 10 against Walnut High School. While boy’s varsity tied its match, girls varsity and the frosh team were able to secure solid wins.
“Once again we are blessed with some really fast, hard working and talented freshman. This will make our team stronger this year. We will be working a lot on speed and technique,” Ankeny said via email.
This season, an additional coach, Amy Patrick, has joined the Brahmas, offering another watchful eye to help instruct the swimmers. According to Ankeny, because the team consists of a considerably larger group than last year, the addition will make things easier and more efficient for both students and staff.
Ankeny aims to win league again for boys and also hopes for multiple wins from the girls this season. For the girls, Ankeny believes Glendora High School to be the team’s toughest competitor.
Making things even more interesting is the new “suit fittings” the swim team members have been trying.
Senior swim members collaborated to come up with two designs for the team swim suits. Then Turbo Swimwear brought them to life and the seniors voted on which one will be the official team suit. They intend to continue this tradition for the Diamond Bar swim team in future years.
Many team members swim for clubs outside of school, such as the El Monte Swim Team, Brea Aquatics, Chino Hills Aquatics, and Trident Swim Club.
“Everyone is really working hard so far and stepping up. I am looking forward to some fast times and a strong finale. Last year, we had several qualify for the state meet, but only one of them went. This year we want to have more and qualify a relay or two,” Ankeny said.
