S-M girl’s swim team keeps improving

The Staples-Motley girls swim team dropped a dual meet 124-49 to Ogilvie-Mora on Sept. 8, but still had a lot to be proud of.

“The majority of girls dropped even more time, with more personal bests and great attitudes.” said Coach Amanda Olson. “I’m very proud of how they’re progressing and how some of the girls are really pushing themselves out of their comfort zone and seeing what they’re capable of doing.”

Olson pointed to a few highlights, including the 400 freestyle relay team of Emma Gerard, Jaden Engebretson, Emily Veronen and Lili Schneider placing second and the 200 medley relay of Veronen, Schneider, Autumn Nelsen and Gerard dropping their time.

Individual highlights included Veronen and Schneider placing third and fourth in the 200 individual medley, 100 butterfly sister duo Hannah and Brianna Hinman placing third and fourth, Joelle Bounds third in the 500 freestyle.

The Cardinals are a young team and Olson said “It’s been great fun seeing the younger girls get excited about what they’re doing and having fun with the sport. Overall, they’re placing well, rocking their times individually.”

Junior varsity stars included five first place finishes, Ari Brings in the 50 freestyle, Adriana Dickey in the 200 freestyle and 100 backstroke, Aleeah Halverson in the 100 freestyle and the 200 freestyle relay. Other JV placers were Evelyn Gonzalez, Mikayla Williams and Jaden Engebretson.