Most Kent students will be long gone from campus on March 7, which marks the beginning of the much-coveted Spring break. However, 18 students will stay behind to prepare for the open New England Tournament held at the Roger Williams University in Rhode Island. These dedicated athletes make up Kent’s girls varsity swimming team that has continuously put in their best efforts for every meet of the season.

Although returning swimmers filled only half of the team, the new members greatly contributed by being supportive of each other. Co-captain Jitty Synn ’15 comments, “I feel so grateful and honored to work and swim every day with these ladies ready to put in so much hard work.”

During the 14-week season, co-captain Steph Schor ’15 shined bright for putting all her best into the pool overtime. According to Synn, Margaret Saunders ’16, Bella Vice-Van Heyde ’16, and Alina Holmstrom ’15 have also been consistently working hard. As a supportive and hardworking team player, Saunders “challenged herself to swim faster everyday since Day 1.” On the other hand, Heyde is a swimmer the entire team can depend on no matter who is injured or hurt. Her consistent effort to make a time for New Englands was also “inspirational.” Last but definitely not least, Alina Holmstrom ’15 was someone who “worked harder than anyone else on the team,” says Synn.

The entire team praises Head Coach Alexandra Kelly and Assistant Coach Julie Zurolo for pushing the team through both the good and the bad. Especially, the coaches set a sturdy foundation by always encouraging swimmers “to become not only a better individual swimmer, but also a supportive team player.”

As the swimming team heads to New Englands in coming days, there is no doubt that many prepared swimmers will drop time and set some personal records at the meet. Good luck Lions!