The Eaton Reds swim team recently concluded their season at the state championship. They competed at the Veterans Memorial Aquatic Center on Feb. 10 and Feb.11, marking the end of a memorable and sentimental season for the seniors.
The relay team delivered solid performances against around 40 other teams, with the 200-medley relay team finishing in 26th place and the 200 freestyle relay team coming in 23rd place. The swimmers have potential challenges of trusting and depending on one another when it comes to being on a relay team together. Sophie Morgan (25) said, “It’s hard to just trust everyone, but I feel like all of us have had a really good bond over the last four years. It’s gotten to the point where we can rely on each other, and we know we’re all going to do our best and it’ll all work out in the end.”
For the individual events, Dharma Perkins (25) placed 15th in the 50 freestyle and 26th in the 100 butterfly. Perkins said, “It was definitely nerve-wracking, and I really wanted to do well for my very last meet.”
The senior’s last meet on the team brought nostalgic emotions among the swimmers since they have been on the team for so long. Morgan said, “It was definitely bittersweet, especially because I’ve been swimming for 13 years. The last time being in the pool was sad, but I’m glad it ended how it did.”
Based on votes from various coaches, two Eaton swimmers received designations that went beyond times and places. Maddux Chapman (25) was named Diver of the Year, a significant achievement for the team, while Perkins was named Swimmer of the Year. Perkins said, “It’s usually unusual that two people from the same team get awards. So, it was more special that we both got an award that we 100% deserve.”
Despite the sadness of their high school careers coming to a close, the team’s accomplishments throughout the season have reflected their dedication, hard work and the strong bonds they have built together. The state meet was a testament to the team’s progress and camaraderie, with many milestones that were achieved, from personal bests to team goals being achieved.
