The Valley View Swim Team is more than races and medals, it's having a good mindset and coming together as a team to support each other. Over the course of long practices and late nights the Valley View Swim Team worked together through it all. For many swimmers this season isn't just about medals, but personal growth and friendships made. Sophomore Evan Canevari, captain of the boys team, understands that practices and meets could be stressful and hard, but keeping that positive mindset keeps Canevari going. “I normally think about just how far I came during the year. And just all the people who supported me throughout,” Evan said.
Support is something that keeps a team together. Support from coaches, teammates, and families has a strong impact on how the team performs and grows. Junior Gabriella Zurn had a strong input about the team's relationship and how different grades connect with each other. “We all feel like sisters, we all like to goof off, and it's nice having relationships with people from different grades,” Zurn said. Upperclassmen play a major role in support as they help guide younger swimmers through challenges. “As upperclassmen, we act like leaders for the team,” Zurn had shared when asked about how differences in grades play in team bonding. A good mindset could affect an athlete’s approach and ability. Practices often last several hours and push swimmers physically and mentality. Repetitive laps, timed sets, and intense drills could be overwhelming but better their mindset and performance. “Just push yourself and try your absolute best, and some moments, you may not be able to achieve what you want. But at the end of the day, it still feels amazing to see how far you came,” said Canevari. Setting goals for yourself is very important for athletes. Knowing what you want to accomplish can boost your confidence and performance. Gabriella set a lot of goals for herself and the team and is confident she could achieve them,”I want to drop times obviously, but I want to build stronger friendships with my teammates,” Zurn stated, “I want us to place districts, and I think we can do it.” She has already achieved a lot as a swimmer and is ready to achieve even more through her years as an athlete. Swim meets bring both excitement and pressure. Swimmers not only compete with other schools but also their personal record. While nerves are likely before races, the team comes together to support and cheer loudly for each other. In the end, the Valley View swim team is built on leadership and connection. Beyond races and medals, the team shows hardwork, personal growth, and lasting friendships.