Building Bonds and Breaking Records: The Growth of Lewis Cass Boys Swim Team

    The Lewis Cass boys’ swim team is making waves this season, not just in the pool but also in the relationships they’re fostering and the progress they’re achieving. With a renewed focus on teamwork, skill development, and commitment, this year’s squad is diving headfirst into what promises to be a memorable season.

Team Building as the Foundation

     At the heart of the team’s growth is an emphasis on building strong bonds. Head coach, Haley Ramer shared, “We do regular team-building activities that help strengthen relationships and improve collaboration within our teams.” These efforts are paying off, fostering a culture of trust and camaraderie that is essential for success. Whether it is through shared victories, overcoming challenges together, or simply enjoying each other’s company, these swimmers are learning the value of teamwork both in and out of the pool.

     For senior varsity swimmer, Landen Hatcher, the social aspect of swimming has been a highlight of his high school career. “My favorite memory of swimming through high school would be meeting new people at meets and connecting with others,” he said. This sentiment underscores the importance of the sport as a platform for personal growth and meaningful relationships.

Patience and Progress in Training

     Training a team that includes swimmers of varying experience levels can be a challenge, but Coach Ramer approaches it with patience and a clear plan. “With a lot of patience, clear instruction, and a step-by-step approach, I’m always willing to teach anyone who wants to be a part of the team,” she explained. For new swimmers, this means learning the strokes one step at a time, even if it involves using a swim belt to build confidence and technique. Coach Ramer has taught countless swimmers how to work through hard races. 

     This individualized attention ensures that every swimmer, regardless of their starting point, has the opportunity to improve. Morning practices play a crucial role in this development. Coach Blake Guy, who works with both boys and girls teams, emphasized their importance, noting, “Morning practices help get extra strength on the different strokes.” These sessions provide a focused environment for swimmers to hone their skills and build endurance, setting the tone for success later in the day.

Balancing Act: Flexibility for Student-Athletes

     In addition to the physical demands of the sport, the coaching staff is committed to supporting swimmers in balancing their commitments. According to Hatcher, “The coaches do an excellent job if you have any extracurricular activities. They are super flexible and super understanding.” This flexibility ensures that swimmers can pursue other interests and responsibilities without compromising their dedication to the team.

     This balance is particularly significant as the team prepares for pivotal meets, such as the conference and sectional competitions. Coach Ramer expressed optimism for the remainder of the season, saying, “We have two big meets, conference and sectionals, and the swimmers are now getting excited to see time drops and seeing that hard work is paying off!” The team’s growing enthusiasm and trust in the process are signs of a program heading in the right direction.

Lessons Beyond the Pool

     For many swimmers, the impact of the sport extends far beyond the water. Hatcher credited swimming with teaching him determination and discipline—qualities that will serve him well in all areas of life. “I’ve learned a lot through swimming, such as being determined,” he reflected.

     These life lessons are a testament to the program’s success in shaping well-rounded individuals. By fostering a supportive environment and emphasizing personal growth, the Lewis Cass swim team is not only developing strong athletes but also preparing students for the challenges of life beyond high school.

Looking Ahead

     As the season progresses, the team’s focus remains on continual improvement and achieving personal bests. With the support of dedicated coaches and a shared commitment among teammates, the swimmers are poised to make their mark at upcoming meets.

     Coach Ramer’s optimism is infectious: “They are buying into the program and trusting the process. That is exciting!” This trust, coupled with the team’s hard work and determination, lays a strong foundation for success—not just for this season, but for years to come.

     For the Lewis Cass boys swim team, the journey is about more than just winning races. It’s about building relationships, embracing challenges, and growing as individuals. And in doing so, they’re proving that success in the pool is just one part of a much larger story. The story of hard work, talent, and friendship.