Lions’ Swim and Dive Falls to Westford

By Caroline Barry
Sports Reporter

This past Thursday, the Newton South varsity girls’ swim team, lead by senior Rachel Navarrette, battled against the Westford Ghosts in a competitive match resulting in a Westford victory. The Lions fought until the end and remained focused and determined until the last event, with just a five point difference on the scoreboard.

The Lions had a rough start, as the cold weather and late meet arrival made for unideal conditions. However, the girls were not fazed, as they continued to persevere throughout the meet holding their heads high. The girls’ performance was energetic and tenacious as they pushed through in all events.

The girls’ 500 meter freestyle took over the meet and freshman Kate Taylor helped score big in the race with a time of 5.55 minutes. Taylor qualified for sectionals this meet and, in doing so, helped raise spirits to keep the attitude positive. The girls’ 100 yard breaststroke stood out to the officials as well, dominating a second place victory for the Lions.

Senior Rachel Navarrette says she was very happy with the effort of the Lions.

“I think some team goals for the future would be to train harder during practice and continue to get to know each other and bring out the best in people,” she said.

The community of the the swim team is one thing that attracts many swimmers to the Newton South team. The Lions hope to build this community as the season progresses.

With this level of committed leadership, it’s impossible to not expect a promising season. The swim leaders have all been striving to improve the quality of practice time and strengthen themselves even more in and out of the pool. Plans entail possible cross training methods to increase power getting off blocks and helping flip turn times.