The Waxahachie Swim Team kicked off their season by hosting tryouts last week, September 6th through the 8th. 

Freshmen and new swimmers were nervous but also excited about tryouts. With tryouts being a 3-day process, it allows everyone to perform to their fullest potential while being noticed by Coach Pruitt.

“I was a little nervous but confident overall,” said freshman Malyah Reeves. “I have been swimming all my life and have always dreamed of being on a high school team.” 

Six captains were announced on the last day of tryouts, Joshua Riser (12), Tyeler Hess (12), Emma Perkins (11), Victoria Chavarria (11), Isabella Alcala (11), and Sidney Sambell (11).  Usually restricted to Seniors, Coach Pruitt made an exception for this year’s Juniors because of this year’s large team.

 “I was shocked actually that I made the group of captains this year; we have a large group this year swimming, so it makes sense to have an extra large group of swim captains,” junior captain Emma Perkins said. “Good leadership makes a good captain, you have to know and be sure of yourself, and be assertive to be able to lead other people.”

Returning swimmers express their goals and determination to grow in the sport. As the Senior swimmers’ high school years come to a close, they want to make memories and enjoy the season one last time with their teammates. 

“I wanna go faster than I did last year. I already broke the 200 free record this summer, and I am excited to swim it at a school meet and have a record broken in my name,” senior Asa Condor said.

 “I hope to continue to decrease my time in my events and continue to beat the records I have set,” said senior captain Tyeler Hess. “I also just want to enjoy the time I have left with my team.”

The parent volunteer group was created after the 2020-2021 school year. It has been a dramatic help to the swimmers and to Coach Pruitt. The first fundraiser of the year will be a Pancake Breakfast to raise money. Held at The Optimist Youth Center, on Saturday, October 22 from 7:30- 10:30 AM.  Tickets are $10 per person with limited availability. 100% of the proceeds will benefit the WHS swim team with things like swimsuits and even equipment.  

“Our students need to know that the parents care so that the swimmers will invest in the team as well, ” said parent group leader Dana Perkins. “Our first goal is to sell a minimum of 400 tickets. The money raised from our ticket sales will go directly back into our program to help us invest in gear, swimwear, and our end-of-year awards banquet!”

The first swim meet of the season will be held on October 1st, at Wilkerson-Greines Activity Center natatorium, Fort Worth, Texas. The swim meet starts at 9 a.m. The Swim Team encourages everyone to come out and support! 

“I am very excited about the first swim meet. I can’t wait to get back into that competitive mindset and be able to cheer on my team,” said senior Tyeler Hess.