The girls swim and dive team had a great run at conference on February 11 and finished second.

Coach Erich Oberlander comments on how the team did at conference.

“The team did great at conference. Lee’s Summit West was just a tiny bit better,” Oberlander said.

There were four conference champions at the meet: junior Bailey Carter in diving, junior Kirsten Markley in the 100 fly, junior McKenzie MacLean in the 500 free, and the 400 relay of senior Kadie Clark, freshman Raegan Hecker, sophomore Gabby Fournier, and MacLean.

The team has also has gained more state qualifiers including a medley relay of Kirsten Markley, junior Alyssa Stone, junior Lauren Markley, and senior Taylor Branson, Lauren Markley in the 100 fly, Clark in the 100 free, and freshman Anna Zweerink in the 100 fly.

The team has been focusing a lot on speed and technique before their state meet on February 16, 17, and 18.

Oberlander describes what the biggest challenge at state will be.

“Biggest challenge at state is how deep and fast Missouri is on the girls side.  There are some really fast teams across the state and getting us to peak next week is definitely the key,” Oberlander said.

Branson tells what she most looks forward to at state.

“I’m looking forward to see all the hard work we’ve put into the season really show. All of us have the potential to put up a best time. I’m also looking forward to bonding with all the other girls. State is really a special experience that brings us together,” Branson said.