SRJC’s men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams opened the season with an intersquad scrimmage Jan. 30, giving athletes an early opportunity to prepare for upcoming meets.
The two-hour session, held from 10 a.m. to noon, focused on building team chemistry as swimmers refined their strokes and divers sharpened their techniques. Teammates cheered from the pool deck throughout the scrimmage, creating an energetic and supportive atmosphere.
Maintaining that energy while emphasizing athletic performance and personal development will be a priority throughout the season, said head coach Jill McCormick.
“We’re always trying to become better athletes, better students and better people,” McCormick said. “In the water, we’re trying to place high at the Big Eight Conference in April and get as many of our athletes qualified to state as possible.”
McCormick said the team’s goals extend beyond wins and results. She encourages athletes to step outside their comfort zones and take risks while reminding them they have her full support.
After the scrimmage, athletes shared their goals and expectations for the season, with several saying the event set a strong tone for the season.
Swimmer Ryker Lichtenberg is eager to see the team perform at upcoming travel meets. “I want to give it my all, and I hope neither I nor my teammates get hurt this season,” he said.
Swimmer Addison Klosevitz is most excited to see the team’s collective growth over the course of the season. “I’m excited to see how we all work together as a team and watch everyone get faster throughout the season,” she said.
Klosevitz added that she plans to push herself in every practice as she works to improve her skills in the pool.
The Bear Cubs will continue training ahead of their first official meet, with coaches emphasizing both performance and athlete safety.
