Asheville Swimming & Diving Celebrates 20th Anniversary

News Summary

Asheville’s swimming and diving program gears up for a landmark Senior Day meet, celebrating its 20th anniversary with the largest senior class in history. Despite weather warnings, the team aims for a historic victory while honoring their legacy and resilience following disruptions from Hurricane Helene. Athletes reflect on their growth and unique training techniques that set them apart, making this final competition a memorable occasion.

Asheville Swimming & Diving Program Gears Up for Landmark Senior Day Meet!

Asheville is buzzing with excitement as the swimming and diving program approaches its 20th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the world of aquatic athletics. And what better way to celebrate than with a heartfelt Senior Day meet? This season is particularly special as it features the largest senior class in the program’s history. Talk about going out with a splash!

Weather Warnings Can’t Dampen the Spirits

As the weekend approaches, Asheville faces some serious weather challenges. Friday and Saturday are set for weather warning days due to predicted snow and ice accumulation in the Western Carolinas. If you’re planning to travel, do keep an eye out, as conditions are expected to become treacherous by Friday evening. With travel warnings issued from 7 A.M. Friday until 7 A.M. Saturday, it’s advisable to stay cozy at home and tune in to the meet from afar if things get dicey.

History in the Making

This year, the Bulldogs are not just diving into the pool; they’re making history! A junior named Kindal Culpepper is taking the plunge early and graduating, alongside her teammates, making up the program’s first-ever double-digit senior class. This is a huge achievement for the team, and with a 13-meet winning streak on the line, they are eyeing a fourteenth victory this weekend!

The camaraderie of the team is evident at every meet. You’ll often spot them bringing energy and enthusiasm, encouraged by their beloved mascot, Kevin. This uplifting spirit is sure to make their final competition together memorable, but let’s not forget the challenging emotions that come with leaving competitive athletics behind.

Embracing Challenges and Growth

The path hasn’t always been smooth sailing for the team. The swimmers experienced major disruptions due to Hurricane Helene, resulting in evacuated training sessions and the cancelation of half of their scheduled meets. Even so, the athletes have remained dedicated and resilient, striving to focus on their performances despite the setbacks. Teammate Caroline Crouse reflects on the difficulties and embraces the experience they have gained throughout the season.

Over the years, the team has evolved, and Chloe McDonald can personally attest to the consistent growth and maturation of their skills. They’ve embraced innovative training techniques, such as using “Ears” ear pieces that allow them to listen to music and coaching cues simultaneously while they practice. This distinct flair is just another way the program stands out, even though it may not be as large as other Division 1 teams.

Team Dynamics at the Core

Diving, in particular, holds a unique allure. Assistant diving coach Matthew Macon believes it’s the combination of sheer enjoyment of the water and the thrill of fearless diving that draws athletes to the sport. It’s interesting to note that many female divers often have gymnastics backgrounds, while their male counterparts may come from pole-vaulting. Both sports share muscle usage and techniques, making for a smoother transition into diving.

Head coach Elizabeth Lykins, who has been with the program since the very beginning, emphasizes the importance of a fun and relaxed approach to both swimming and diving. The belief here is simple: when athletes enjoy what they do, they perform better. Under her leadership, the program has come a long way from its humble beginnings with only six swimmers and divers.

A Lasting Legacy

As the seniors prepare for their final meet, the legacy they leave behind will undoubtedly be cherished for years to come. The records they set will remain on the board, inspiring future teams long after they’ve moved on. With every dive and every stroke, the spirit of this incredible senior class will echo in the halls of their home aquatic center.

So, mark your calendars! Whether you’re cheering from the stands or buttoned up at home, the upcoming Senior Day meet promises to be a memorable celebration of talent, determination, and friendship. Let’s dive into this exciting chapter of Asheville’s swimming and diving saga together!