The Selma High School Swim season has officially come to a close, and the team has expressed its growth both individually and as a group. This season, while focused on pushing themselves to break personal records and fighting their way to the top, the teammates gained something more valuable: a sense of family.
Finalizing his third-year of coaching swim, Coach Marcus Valdez expressed his pride in the growth of his swimmers this year. Being familiar with the sport, he relates to the team, contributing to their connected bond with each other.
“Coaching swimming allows me to help students discover their potential in a sport that I truly love,” Coach Marcus shared. “Witnessing their transformation from beginners to skilled swimmers over the course of a season is both inspiring and fulfilling as a coach.”
As his final season comes to a close, Stephen Viveros shared how exciting it was to experience the swim season as a Senior.
“This season was a good one, but being able to experience a lot of fun times with my friends made the whole season way better,” Stephen stated.
The senior shared that his favorite part was likely going out to eat after a tiring swim meet. He explained that, while the sport itself is rewarding, it means the most to bond with your teammates afterwards.
Viveros noted one of his favorite memories this season was senior night.
“The senior night itself was actually very enjoyable,” Stephen shared. “I got to see all of my friends, and I was really happy that my family was out there to support me,” he said .
Junior Abram Rodriguez explained how, despite it being his first year in the sport, his growth has been profound. Abram was encouraged to join the swim team to help build his water polo skills for the next season.
“It was really cool to be able to qualify for the valley championships in a sport that’s my first time doing it,” said Abram.
While reaching his personal goals, Abram shared that his main purpose was to “…you know, get to get the squad better,” showcasing the team’s dedication towards friendship.
Similar to Stephen, Abram shared that his favorite memory this season was, “for sure hitting up Wingstop after the league champs,” humorously showing just how much the team values bonding over a nice meal.
It’s apparent that the swimmers have come to develop deeply meaningful relationships built through their shared love for swimming.
Finally, Viveros had some words of encouragement for any upcoming players or even simple Selma High students.
“No matter what they say or what they do, just keep pushing and you will achieve so much, just keep at it and don’t let the haters bring you down.”
