Successful start to new season by WBHS swimmers impresses coach

“I am more than thrilled with how well the season is going so far,” the coach said. “We have only had two meets, but I have seen the kids improve throughout each. The most amazing part is the fact that the new swimmers have no practice off of the block. We don’t have blocks to practice starts from at the Y and have to rely on meet warm-ups. Diving off the block can be a scary experience, but each of the new swimmers have stepped up on the block, listened to advice and have had great starts. I feel bad for all of the kids regarding the blocks, but none have really complained and have utilized the practice time we do have during meet warm-ups to get up there and make each one a great attempt.”

Early morning practices are the norm for the Swim Doggs and team members worked four out of the five days they were off for Thanksgiving break.

“I could not be more proud of the dedication of the swimmers who were at those practices,” Blevins said. “The attendance solidifies the determination and desire that this team has to improve and compete well.”

A team chemistry has already been formed within the WBHS program.

“I am very impressed with how well the team works together,” Blevins said. “Each pushes each other throughout practice and supports each other during competition. During practice, I have never heard a swimmer complain. I see swimmers pushing through each practice set and not moving on until it is done. I have even told some of them to cut the set short and move on to the next and then be asked if they can move on when the set is finished. I certainly say yes and am proud that they want to finish the set. In past experience, most of my swimmers would gladly cut a set short to move on. This is just a whole different group of kids.”

An early-season state qualifier is also a key element for the program.

“Having Brittany qualify for state in the first meet and then again in the second is a great boost for everyone,” Blevins said. “It is nice to have WBHS represented at state right at the start of the season. The motivation for several other swimmers is now in full motion and state times are now the goal for them.”

The WBHS swim teams will return to the pool Dec. 4 at the Clayton County “Coming’ to Town” Invitational at the Steve Lundquist Aquatic Center. WBHS will compete at the University of Georgia Dec. 11.