Swimmers Set Sights On State

By Vanessa Silke

Although the Swim Team has yet to compete in Metros or State, they have already beaten every Class A team in Nebraska. They have also broken three Marian records, and are the favorite for the State tournament. ÒWe have a lot of strength and leadership i n all four years represented on the team,Ó said Mrs. Carol Olson, co-coach.

The team returned most of its swimmers from last year, and is led by five seniors and a strong representation from the underclass. ÒMarian has a really good swimming program, and everything this year has been fun,Ó said Katie Elcholt, freshman.

Marian swimmers who have qualified for State include: freshmen Katie Eckholt and Kristine Lanspa, sophomores Diana Coulton, Jennifer Cimino, Danielle Koch, and Leigh Carlson, junior Carrie Lanspa, and seniors Molly Hayes, Meghann Longo, and Andrea Tourek. "We're confident that weÕll take state, but we wonÕt lose our focus when we compete at state,Ó said Hayes.

The Marian swim team is a favorite for the State competition, yet the swimmers continue to work hard. ÒWe feel a tremendous amount of committment on the part of the swimmers and their dedication to practices and will to succeed,Ó said Mr. Pat DiBiase, co- coach. Metros are held Feb. 12-14. The State qualifiers will compete Feb. 26-28.

Although the divers, junior Juliet Forchtner, and sophomore Bridget Sundermeier, have not yet won any competitions, they enjoy their time on the diving team. ÒItÕs been fun,Ó said Forchtner.

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