Selma High’s varsity swim team has had an impactful season so far, showcasing their steady improvement and allowing their teamwork to shine through. With each swim meet, the swimmers have continued to push themselves to beat their own personal records while also supporting each other and focusing on their team’s relationship.
Wrapping up his third season as a member of the team, junior Andrew Bustinza shared his season experience this year.
“This season, so far, has been amazing,” said Bustinza. “Every practice, I can feel myself improving little by little. It’s always great to practice and compete with my teammates who are also improving.”
Many of the swimmers have spent their time focused on individual growth. Andrew illustrated his personal goals for this swim season.
“I would like to improve by not only shaving time off of my personal best each meet, but by staying disciplined and trying my best every single practice and workout we do,” Bustinza explained.
As the season has progressed, the athletes have recently returned to competing at their newly remodeled pool here at Selma High School–bringing excitement and motivation to their practices and swim meets.
“I’ve been on Varsity for two years, and I have been swimming all four years,” senior Irving Vejar shares. “This season has been going pretty well so far; there is always room for improvement.”
Through determination, Irving wants to refine his technique and build more endurance in the water.
“I would like to improve on the 500 and get a sub7 by the end of this year,” Irving shared.
Both Andrew and Irving expressed their gratitude, saying, “It’s awesome to be back having home meets at our brand new pool, which was just remodeled. You can feel a speed boost diving off a brand new block that we’ve been practicing on for months.”
Beyond the competition, many of the swimmers say their favorite part of the sport is the family they’ve found within each other. They expressed how their support system found within each other has made the game that much more enjoyable.
“My favorite part of swimming is the family that comes with being on the team. No matter what we’re doing, whether it’s getting In-n-Out after games or talking and laughing during warm-ups, or pushing each other through tough sets at practice, we’re always having fun. No matter if you had a bad race or if you’re just not feeling well, you can count on your teammates to cheer you up, making all bad times good,” Bustinza shared.
Andrew then urged the student body to support their fellow peers.
“Coming up, we have our senior night, which is one of the most important meets of the season. Anyone reading this should come out and support them in their final home meet.”
This season hasn’t been without its challenges, with tight losses and tough sets, the team still stands strong, showing their remaining effort through each stride–not just record books, but showing their commitment in the pool during each practice. As they wrap up their season, to a close they continue to show their best across multiple events. Our swimmers have shown grit, steady improvement, and accountability. While still half a season ahead, they’ve built a strong foundation as a team of technique and teamwork. The best is yet to come!
