The year’s swim and dive season has ended with an exciting conclusion at the teams’ final competitions a few weeks ago. Both the JV and varsity boys team took third place overall in their division, and the varsity girls came in a close fifth place, while the JV girls finished in third place. All of this season’s swimmers showed immense individual improvement in their races, and this dedication to the sport was especially evident at the last events of the season. 
The swimmers were appreciated for their efforts at the teams’ swim and dive banquet, where swimmers, divers, coaches, and family came together for a potluck and awards ceremony. Each team was given participation certificates as well as ribbons from their meets and plaques for a select few. Sophomore Carly Zilge won a plaque for the MVP award on JV girls team. Zilge won the award for, among other things, her incredible time drop of over thirty seconds. She progressed through the season and ended up winning first place in the 100 IM with a time of 1:18. Jordan Williams, another sophomore, won both Most Improved and Coaches’ Choice. After awards were presented, the swimmers showed their appreciation for their coaches, showering them with gifts and thanks. The banquet ended with a touching promise from the varsity boys to return to the team next season. Coach Matt Troxell said with regards to the boys’ gift, “It’s really hard to get seniors to come back and swim . . . This is great.” Because of the traditionally low amount of senior commitments to the team, the boys’ was well received.
The SLV dive team also participated in the awards and potluck. Senior Aliana Rosario won MVP after spending four years diving for SLV. First year diver and Junior, Kyle Gilbert, was also appreciated for his amazing natural talent and teachable qualities. Although small in numbers, the SLV dive team has earned a reputation for their smooth, skillful dives. They have managed to advance into the CCS competition this season, and are expected to do very well.
By: Veronica Vickers
The Claw 