The boys swim and dive season is very much underway. Competition began shortly after the start of the season on Nov. 24 with the Blue and Gold Intersquad meet on Nov. 29. The boys are optimistic about their upcoming season, Varsity swim Captain CJ Bass ‘26 said. 

“This is my last season with the team, and it feels like the most anticipated one for all the guys,” Bass said. “We all think we can do big things this year, and living up to not only my goals individually, but also not letting those other guys down with our team goal, is something that motivates me and all the guys.”

Varsity Head swim coach Erin Rodriguez is excited for the upcoming season, she said. 

“My goal each season is for the boys to leave the season as better people and athletes than when they started it,” Rodriguez said. “Performance-wise, we’re always trying to get back into the Top-10 at State, so that is something we will be working towards each day.”

The team hopes to remain competitive throughout the season, Bass said. Last year, the boys placed 11th at State and qualified seven swimmers and two divers. This year, they hope to place within the top 10.

“A team goal for everyone is to create a competitive space where everyone on the team, no matter where they are, can get better every day,” Bass said. “It’s essential to everyone on the team that we all improve from our starting point, and because of that, we’ll be able to achieve goals like remaining competitive throughout the season and placing well at conference, sectionals, or state.”

Because the boys’ season falls in the winter, the cold temperatures and dark days can make the season even more grueling, Rodriguez said. However, the boys find ways to have fun and keep morale high.  

“They find ways to have fun in any environment they’re in,” Rodriguez said. “This group pushes each other, and they’ve been swimming together for so long that they’re truly like brothers. They understand that everyone has a purpose on this team, and it’s a special thing.”

A strong team culture is an essential piece to helping the team achieve its goals in the pool, Bass said.

“Something I’ve always tried to do is talk to everyone on the team,” Bass said. “People naturally have their groups of friends, but if everyone can learn to talk to each other and get to know one another a little more, it makes a much better team.”
New to the coaching staff this year as an assistant coach is Matt Linden. He graduated from LT in 2017 and was on LT’s back-to-back state championship teams as a sprint freestyler. 

With a strong team culture, dedication, and optimism, the boys’ swim and dive team is ready for the upcoming season. The team’s next meet is at York on Dec. 19.