Men’s Swimming and Diving band together: Hawks’ brotherhood propels them toward success
This year, men’s swimming and diving remains undefeated after 10 meets. They also have six swimmers listed as New England Intercollegiate Swimming and Diving Association (NEISDA) Fall All-Academic Team members.
What’s the secret to their success? According to the swimmers and their coaches, it’s the unwavering bonds of family between the swimmers.
The 2018-2019 men’s swim team is one of the largest teams the program has seen in a while with 29 varsity swimmers. Senior captain Hunter Olson says that the team’s size only adds to their chemistry.
“We have the largest [men’s] team that we’ve had in a couple years,” Olson said. “There’s a lot of camaraderie. Everyone’s helping each other and holding each other up. I think we take the family aspect more seriously than other teams.”
Sophomore Christian Montanez agrees.
“We’re always with each other, we do everything together. We’re just a big family,” Montanez said.
Montanez adds that their coach, Matt Emmert, has been very supportive throughout the season.
“Coach Matt keeps reminding us that we’re one team, and our captains say the same thing, which pumps us up,” Montanez said. “It’s like a cycle.”
This year, the Hawks are going for their third consecutive NEISDA championship title. Freshman Jeff Lyman is confident in the Hawks’ ability to clinch the meet.
“I think the team’s been so successful because we’ve had a great season. We’ve gone undefeated and I’m pretty sure we’re going to win champs,” Lyman said.
