The Menomonee Falls Hamilton co-op girls swim team is entering the final stretch of the season with high aspirations. The group is preparing for the state championships with a clear objective that has been established since the beginning of the year. Their goal is to secure the state title, a target that reflects their consistent performance throughout the competitive calendar.
Head coach Matt Kopp noted that the team has maintained a focus on their objectives all season long. He pointed to their big board, which outlined the plan to become conference champions and capture the sectional title. The squad has successfully achieved those earlier milestones, setting the stage for their push at the state level.
Senior Ally Gordon expressed the excitement surrounding the team's recent success. She described the sectional championship as a historic achievement for the group. Gordon highlighted the significance of being part of a team that is making history in this season.
The state meet also serves as a significant moment for senior Emily Scargill. She recently held a signing day to commit to swimming at Florida Atlantic University. Scargill has been involved in the sport since she was six years old and views the next chapter as an opportunity to continue her passion for swimming with a new team.
Coach Kopp praised Scargill for her leadership role within the squad. He described her as a guiding figure for the incoming freshmen, helping them understand the expectations of high school swimming and the specific culture of the team. Her experience has been instrumental in mentoring the younger members.
The bond among the swimmers is a defining characteristic of the program. Many of the current members have trained together since they were eight years old. Despite the fact that the team is a co-op arrangement involving two different schools, this long history has fostered a strong sense of unity.
Gordon emphasized that having two schools form one team is a special aspect of their identity. She believes this structure speaks volumes about the team culture. Scargill added that the diverse backgrounds of the players, including different classes and teachers, keep the group dynamic and varied.
The team is currently in a transitional phase, with fifteen seniors preparing to move on and fifteen freshmen joining the ranks. The state meet represents a final opportunity for the current group to compete together. The players are aware that this is a unique experience that they will cherish in the future.
Gordon highlighted the balance the team maintains between hard work and a fun environment. She noted that the shared jokes and enjoyable practices contribute to their unique dynamic. Kopp acknowledged the emotional weight of the upcoming final meets, predicting that the moment will be felt deeply by the swimmers, coaches, and parents alike.
The Division 2 state championships are scheduled to take place on Friday. Following that, the Division 1 state championships will be held on Saturday. The Menomonee Falls Hamilton team will be looking to add to their season's accomplishments during these events.
