In the wise and inspirational words of Eminem, “If you had one shot, or one opportunity to seize everything you ever wanted, in one moment, would you capture it, or just let it slip?”
On the Liberty boys swim and dive team, capturing that moment is their only goal. From returners to brand new swimmers, this year’s team is not only focused on swimming, but also on their team spirit. They are excited about the upcoming meets and are ready to get back to their swim routines and rituals.
One of their most notable traditions is their pre-meet cheer, which started two years ago when alum Adam Flash would rap Eminem’s “Lose Yourself.”
“Before every meet, we all get in a big circle and nominate somebody to go in the middle,” senior captain Bruce Vagt said. “Last year, we passed the baton to Adam Flash’s little brother Daniel, who gives us a motivational speech by Eminem.”
As for the other captains, they praise their annual alumni animal ball game that pits Liberty’s current team against the graduated swimmers. It’s the boys’ version of water polo with a huge group of people, just without all of the rules.
“We never really win but it’s fun to see everyone again,” senior captain Alexander Nguyen said.
The team spirit doesn’t stop there, though. From the other swimmers to the coaches, this team is built upon supporting and cheering on one another. Senior captain Warren Briggs especially is known for being energetic at every meet and practice.
“Warren has a ton of energy. I don’t know where he gets all of it, but he’s always team-spirited and cheering everyone on,” sophomore swimmer Daniel Flash said.
Briggs learned a lot from swimming with Liberty and is excited to take his skills and spirit to the Division 1 swim team at the University of Pittsburgh.
It’s clear that with their many entertaining traditions, this team is dedicated to supporting each other and working hard to prepare for their upcoming meets. Watch out Liberty, because these swimmers are definitely ready to capture their moment this season, as per Eminem’s wise words.