The Notre Dame Academy girls’ swim team actually dove into their season on August 12. They geared up for another season of hard work, improvement, and team spirit regardless of numbers.
Practices are held in the pools of UW-Green Bay and the Kroc Center in Green Bay. The team has been practicing endlessly, as well as having lifting sessions at NDA.
This year’s team includes Allison Hera, Sasha Euceda, Hannah West, Addison Sinkler, Gabriella Binard, and Lillian Hoban. Sophomore Hannah West leads the team as captain this year.
“There are no tryouts. Everyone is welcome. We really want to build awareness about swimming at NDA. You don’t have to be an expert to join. Our goal is to help every swimmer grow and gain confidence,” said Head Coach Julie Collison.
This sense of inclusivity and individual engagement makes the season enjoyable for the team.
“The team is so supportive of each other. They celebrate everyone’s accomplishments, big and small. It’s been great to see them really come together this season,” Coach Collison added.
To keep practices engaging, the team incorporates fun aspects into practices and bonding. “We have ‘Sunday Funday,’ where we end with a fun relay or silly drill. We also give out the weekly ‘Distinguished Duck’ award to a swimmer who goes above and beyond. They get to pick a rubber duck and are featured on our Instagram page,” Collison explained.
Captain Hannah West said that camaraderie is what makes the swim season so enjoyable.
“I really look forward to practice every day,” West admitted. “I love seeing my teammates’ happy faces. Our coach knows each of us personally, and that makes the team environment really special.”
The team’s dedication and time working were displayed at their second annual home meet at St.Norbert College. This was their largest meet yet, with 75 swimmers from eight different schools competing.
Every swimmer from NDA’s team dropped time in at least one of their events, making a strong step for the girls’ swim program.
As the season continues and enters the latter half, their focus remains on progress and teamwork.
“A team is more fun and successful when you support everyone on it,” Collison shared.
