The swim and dive team is making waves this season with juniors taking the lead, bringing new energy, teamwork, and motivation to the pool. Their leadership has helped create a strong bond among teammates and set a positive tone for the rest of the season.

“When I was a freshman, I didn't feel as included as the freshmen do now, and I feel like we bring people together more this year, and I think the new junior captains are about not dividing our groups of people, we're more of one big group,” junior Bailey Grewe said.

The juniors' leadership gives the team motivation for individual swimmers to push their personal limits but also encourages a sense of unity, accountability, and shared responsibility that strengthens the entire team.

“The freshmen feel really included, " Grewe said, “and I know that they think we're a lot of fun. There are a couple of freshmen who are trying to get acclimated to our group of people, but I think the captains are doing good with bringing that same spirit, whether they are hyped or not.”

It becomes clear that the juniors’ guidance extends beyond giving instructions or setting examples in practice; their leadership shapes the team’s culture, fostering an environment where every member feels supported, challenged, and inspired to perform at their best.

“Being juniors now shows us a different perspective, and being like leaders is kind of boosting our ego a little bit for senior year,” Grew said.

Their growing confidence has helped them step into leadership roles with a stronger sense of responsibility and pride by showing respect and understanding

“We are really good together. I think we have good collaboration. We have great ideas,” Grew said.

This strong sense of teamwork allows them to build on each other’s strengths and turn creative ideas into real success.

“The team makes it really easy to kind of have almost like a switch. I'm able to have my own life. When I'm at practice, I'm able to be a teammate and just focus on my diving. Then there are times when I do need to step into that leadership,” junior Anna McAllister said.

This balance not only helps her maintain focus on her own performance but also prepares her to step up and guide the team effectively whenever leadership is needed.

“I really try to individually get to know them and see what's been bothering them or what they've been struggling with, swimming and diving. And then I also really like to give them a little pep talk before the meet,” McAllister said