Continuing a phenomenal tradition of over 68 conference titles wins since 1966, the DVC Swimming/ Diving program set their eyes on earning even more hardware this season.
Last season the women’s team won their 29th conference title and placed second at the state meet, falling two points shy of the 500 points they needed for gold. With seven returning All-Americans to the squad head coach Rick Millington see’s vengeance in the heart of this year’s team.” We’ve played it over and over in our heads how we could of won that state meet, “ said coach Millington
The key all-American returners are: Taylor Henry, Jaymee Krochka, Nadeen Nassar, Katie O’Connor, Erin Ranahan, Hannah Voegtly and Shaila Yoder. “Swimming teaches you how to put what you want in perspective and how to work toward that goal,” says team captain Taylor Henry.
Last season the men’s team finished sixth in the state. They have five key All-American returners: Austin Akre, Edoardo Cuomo, Blake Hollis, Taylor Martinez and Lee Ward. “Being part of the swimming team provides a home away from home at school, also apart from building friendships you gain a sense of respect for other swimmers”, said Austin Akre who is a team captain this year.
“This year I predict, with what we have we will place top 3 in the state with both the women and men’s team”, said coach Millington. One way the program looks to achieve their goals this season is by turning the team into more of a family atmosphere, with numerous members leading by example and providing support.
Whether it is checking up on a teammate that is having a bad day at practice, or giving constructive criticism on how to get better, “We’re definitely a big family and we care about each other”, said team captain Michael Billey.”We take the importance of working as a group serious because even though we swim individual events we win the meet together as a team.” A DVC swimmer is estimated to swim about 8-9,000 yards a day since the team has both day and night practice sessions, according to Billey.
Developing leadership skills is crucial for keeping the team together and sane through the season. “You know, there is an important thing about athletics beyond sports that is being part of a group that focuses on a goal”, said former DVC all-conference swimmer and CSU chancellor Timothy White. “There is a work ethic aspect to Athletics independent of the sporting nature of it all that I think is a very important piece of my life”.
The Team is preparing to host this year’s Big 8 Conference meet on Mar.15th.