Boys swim finishes third at Blue Valley West Invitational
The Jaguars team complete another successful meet as the postseason approaches
January 29, 2018
The boys swim team placed third at the Jaguar Invitational meet on Thursday, Jan. 25. Sophomore Colby Beggs finished 0.3 seconds away from qualifying for state in the 200 meter Individual Medley (IM) and several swimmers placed second in individual events.
Sophomore Avery Lawson’s preparation for the meet included connecting with himself mentally in order to hone his focus towards the times and events that were most important to him.
“I had a lot of quiet time and reflecting, making sure that I could perform the best,” Avery said.
Meanwhile, sophomore Colby Beggs took a more relaxed approach to the meet, wanting to avoid stress and give more emphasis on his personal goals.
“My mentality was to just go for it,” Beggs said. “I just wanted to try and get a state time for the 200 IM because I was very close to reaching it last meet.”
Unlike the majority of his teammates, senior Carter Lawson had to miss Wednesday’s practice. Although this could be seen as a disadvantage, Carter believes that it did not have an affect on his swimming.
“I was prepared for the meet because I went to [another] meet earlier this week,” Carter said. “I think that by this time in the season, if you miss one or two practices, you’re in good enough shape that you can handle it and jump right back in.”
Beggs intention throughout the season has been to improve his times, but one of his favorite experiences has been competing in the relays due to the friendships it has fostered.
“I’m friends with a lot of the guys on the relay,” Beggs said. “You get to know the people and what they do because you’re around them a lot.”
The most enjoyable experience for Carter has been taking on a leadership position and being able to center his season around memories and strengthening bonds with other teammates.
“[As seniors], we just have a lot of fun,” Carter said. “We know it’s the last season and we can goof around a lot and we’re leading the team as well.”
As the team has competed throughout the season, the teammates have formed friendships and constantly provide support and encouragement to one another. Avery feels that the team’s closeness has been an important part of the sport.
“Everybody on the team is so friendly,” Avery said. “It’s honestly like a second family.”
Fans can come out and support the Jaguars at their next meet on Tuesday, Jan. 30 at Blue Valley West High School.
