By: Tina Vlamis
“Don’t even consider the option of losing,” was the mantra repeated by girls’ swim team captain Katie Drewry leading up to Woodland’s victory against Torrington on September 19th.
This victory has been goal of the swim team since 2005, which was the last time they defeated Torrington. In the past decade, the Woodland had come close to winning several times (even tying Torrington in 2011) and this year they were ready to take the victory home. Prior to the meet, the team had a silent bus ride so everyone could dedicate all of their focus to mentally preparing.
Although positive thinking was a factor in their performance, there was also a strong work ethic among the whole team. Chloe Ariola, Brooke Pope, and Lauren Lombardo did exceptionally well, sweeping the top three spots in the 50 free, the event which Drewry deemed the turning point of the meet.
When Woodland won 88-83, the team was ecstatic, and their ride home was very far from silent. The dedication and positive thinking exhibited by the whole team truly paid off in the end, showing all of Woodland athletics that anything is achievable with hard work.
Look for the girls to hit the pool again this Friday against Watertown.
Tina is the Executive Social Media Director, and in charge of managing Hawk Headlines. She has spent three full semesters here, and is heavily involved with theater. Tina describes herself as a "pop culture aficionado".
