By Katie Ristau

Plainwell Women’s Swim and Dive team has quite the beastly reputation. From the unshaved legs to the outrageous costumes worn on Homecoming, these girls have a way of making an appearance in and out of the pool.

Over the past decade these undaunted girls have dominated year after year in their conference meet. With exception for last year. This defeat won’t stand in their way this year though.

“This team is hungry to get back on the podium with a trophy if we prepare well and execute our workout toughness that will be the deciding factor to achieving our goal,” said head coach John Dubois.

Dubois went on to say “We do not look at last year as a defeat but a challenge to our program.”

“I am feeling really ready! We are going to kick butt! We might be a little nervous, especially after last year, but that’s usual and we always pull through,” said Mikah Havenaar ‘18

“I’m excited to go back and reclaim our position in first place,” stated Emma Varley ‘17.

While Varley may be confident about the conference meet, others struggle with conquering the nerves.

“I’m nervous but excited because the team is so fun and supportive,” said Shanyn Jewell ‘19.

Cassy Keator ‘18 explains how the pressure from last years conference was so intense she wasn’t able to overcome her nerves and she didn’t perform her best. Because of the great memories made throughout the season, Keator knows no matter what happens at conference she is grateful for participating with the girls.

The team did not grow to become so supportive by chance. Many hours of strenuous practice and team bonding have grown the team into a family.

Jessica Nyberg ‘16 who participates on two other sports teams compares the team closeness to other teams she’s been on.

“My favorite part of the season is all the team bonding because it better and brings us closer than any other sports team,” said Nyberg.

Jewell agrees with Nyberg and admits her favorite part of being a swimmer is being able to get to know everyone and bond with the team.

This team bonding has lead to many successful meets over the season. The team has a record of being 7 and 1.

“The dual Allegan meet was my best meet because I beat my times and it felt great to beat them since they showed up in Limos,” said Keator.

“The best meet was when we dominated Allegan and according to the local newspaper ‘Plainwell had too much depth for Allegan to handle,’” said Allison Singh ‘16.

The hype for meets and conference is shared among the divers as well.

“The best part is being able to lead and guide new divers and watch as they develop,” said Zimmer.

“My best meet was against St. Joe because I beat this girl who thought she was better than me and was making fun of me,” said Zimmer.

As the swimmers and divers prepare for the conference meet by tapering and team dinners they are hoping to see a big fan section on Nov 7 at Allegan High School cheering them to victory.