The nerves linger before and after the countdown. Droplets fly up with the explosions that break the surface of the cool water. The echoes of the crowd’s cheer mix with the noise of turbulent water. This moment marks the start and finish of the boy’s swim and dive season for many such as senior captains Parker Klein, Shawn Le, Trenton Pham, and David Terayama.
This year, however, has brought much change for the swive team.
“We got a new coach with a fresh perspective, which is important for coaching a team as large as the boys’ team,” Terayama said.
“Our new coach used to coach club swim, so he makes it easier for club swimmers to balance both because he understands what it takes to be a club swimmer,” junior swimmer Cole Canaday said.
Coach John strived to better the swimmers, starting with the routines.
“He’s definitely made the practices harder, and it makes our team faster, so we’re doing better this season. Our coach holds us more accountable so more people are performing at a better level,” Canaday said.
“After your race, he discusses your splits and race plans and highlights areas for improvement. He helps set a goal for the postseason,” Pham said.
As a result of the coaching and hard work, the season victoriously ended with 5 wins and 2 losses.
Beyond practice, Coach John has also advocated for stronger cooperation within the team.
“When the swimmers walk behind the boards when we’re about to dive, it makes us lose our focus. But Coach John had a meeting with the swimmers about respecting the divers and not doing it. The swim coach also had a meeting about anti-bullying which seemed inspiring,” sophomore diver Sean Carr said.
In addition to these changes, the team spirit is truly stronger this year, thanks to the efforts of the team captains and managers. The team managers created the Liberty swive Instagram account combining the boys’ and girls’ teams into one.
“The managers care, and it’s definitely impacted the energy and the overall environment,” Terayama said.
The Instagram posts provide a glimpse into high-energy events such as senior night.
“During Senior Night, both swim and dive seniors were celebrated. We received posters and took pictures. We had a relay organized by class and we swam in bikinis to make the experience memorable for us and everyone,” Terayama said.
The season has brought many valuable moments for members to reflect on.
“This year, people are more involved in swimming because we have a stronger bond with each other. Seeing each other every day for practice helps us get to know each other well,” Burke Wagner said.
“In terms of team bonding, I’m seeing many improvements, especially with the underclassmen; they love cheering for teammates. It’s a very loud and great atmosphere,” Pham said.
