The swim team finished its season last weekend in breathtaking style.
Numerous NCAA Division II records and school records were shattered by the time the TigerSharks left the pool.
They went into the championships with something to prove, and they walked out as arguably the top Ouachita swim team of all time, setting more school records than any team before them.
When all was said and done the TigerSharks were a little shocked with how well they had finished.
“I think that everyone surprised themselves with how fast we swam,” said junior Hal Eubanks. “We put in so much hard work for eight months and we always expect it to pay off, but I think it paid off better than many of us could have expected.”
The women’s team performed well also, having its most successful meet of the year and exceeding many expectations.
“I think the girl’s team did a lot better than expected,” said senior Sarah Watson. “We were not expected to crack the top 10 and we ended up sixth. I am proud of everyone who swam.”
One of the main reasons the swim team has had success all year is because of the attitude surrounding the team. “It was not only I who performed well, the whole team worked hard as one,” senior Nelson Silva said. “That is one of the reasons that we succeeded this year.”
This team bond was important the whole season for the swim team.
“I am so proud to be a part of this team, not just because we are fast, but also because of how close our team is,” said freshman Megan Young. “They are like a second family to me. I know if I ever need anything, every person on this team would have my back. Looking back a few years ago, I never would have dreamed that I would be swimming for a team this amazing. It is honestly a dream come true.”
During the meet, 20 NCAA records were broken. Of those records, three of them were broken by Ouachita, including the first ever by the Lady TigerSharks.
With the success the swim team had this year they are already thinking about next year.
“Training for next year never ends,” said sophomore Razvan Gogan. “We can’t stay out of the pool for too long or we get out of shape. We have to swim always, no matter what. So for us, training for next year is going to start right after spring break.”
