On February 1st, during the HSE Girls Swim and Dive Reserve Championship meet, the Royals fell to Zionsville (100.9) and Noblesville (92.81), placing 3rd overall in the competition. This meeting was especially heartfelt for the seniors, most of whom competed for the last time in their high school careers at the Reserve Championships. Nevertheless, our Royals fans showed up and showed out to support Girls Swim and Dive.
“Championship meets are always fun”. Said senior Juli Goss, “because you can tell the entire team cares about the success of the individual. It was invigorating knowing that they were cheering me and my other teammates on in every race.”
The Reserve Championship meet was one to remember, as the crowd was one of the most rowdy and energetic crowds the Royals have ever seen for Girls Swim and Dive. All throughout the Natatorium, supporters were dressed in cowboy, USA, and school spirit themed attire, adding to the electric environment at the Championships. The immense support shown on Saturday was extremely meaningful and significant to all the competitors and especially to our Royals.
This emotional night made for an exciting finale to the participating seniors’ careers. Making some swimmers Reserve Champions on their last night as official swimmers here at HSE. However, they will always be remembered on the team and throughout the school.
“It was really weird having my last meet.” said Goss, “A part of me was really proud of making it this far and I’m glad that the meet went so well personally and for the team. The other part was sad to leave the swimming world behind, at least officially.”
Leaving a legacy is an important part of the job that these seniors must take on. The seniors demonstrated this job flawlessly in the championships, leading the competing underclassmen to victory and setting examples to carry on into the next season.
“I would like to think that I have left the swimming program better than I found it.” Said Goss, “I tried to lead by example by working hard and supporting teammates, so I hope the rest of the team keeps that up.”
This legacy played a crucial role in the individual and team success of this championship. With multiple underclassmen placing first in different events, it’s safe to say their legacy is safe.
“The seniors this year have been amazing mentors offering me great guidance, and their leadership helped me grow as a swimmer.” (Kaavya Patel, winner of the 200-Meter Individual Medley)
The Reserve Championship Meet was a wonderful exhibition of mentorship and sportsmanship, as well as setting a standard.
