Swim team makes splash

SANDUSKY — Still within its first year, a local swim team intends to dive right into the deep end, going up against top-level competition. But, as their team name implies, these local athletes will remain confident, fierce and fearless, on the hunt to assert their dominance. For a few months, locals belonging to the Erie County Special Olympics aquatics squad — known as the Sharks — have been rigorously practicing ahead of two major sanctioned events: • A regional swim meet Jan. 25 in Oak Harbor • A state swim meet from Feb. 20-22 in Columbus Those on the Sharks qualified for these meets by previously posting fast enough times in various events. Among those making up the Sharks: Chris Collins, Carrie Eckert, Morgan Foote, Liam Fisher, Jon Ray and Sam West. Lisa Cassel serves as head coach and is assisted by Jim Smith. At these upcoming meets, each swimmer can compete in two individual events and one relay. "Even though we have a small team this year, we're excited to have athletes teaming up for the 4x25-meter freestyle relay as well as competing individually in events ranging from the 25-meter freestyle all the way up to the 100-meter freestyle," Cassel said. "At regionals, our swimmers will compete alongside other Special Olympics athletes from across our Ohio region," Cassel said. "When we make our way to Columbus for state, they'll have the chance to race against athletes for all over Ohio. It's an incredible experience." Cassel provided a deep dive into the team's background, mindset and goals: • The background: "It's been such a bonus to finally have a team practicing right here in Sandusky, thanks to the new Sandusky Aquatic Center (at Sandusky High School). Our group is a mix of seasoned swimmers and athletes who are giving the sport a try for the very first time. No matter their experience level, our goal is the same: to do our best, individually and as a team, and to have fun every step of the way." • The commitment: "The swimmers kicked off their season in September and have been putting in tons of hard work ever since. They're improving every week and getting excited to show off their skills and everything they've been working toward at our upcoming competitions." • The competition aspect: "Competing is a big moment for any athlete. It's the chance to take all the early mornings, the hard practices, the little breakthroughs and the big frustrations and finally put them into motion on a larger stage. Watching them step up with pride, courage and belief in themselves is one of the most rewarding parts of this sport." • The importance: "I took on the role of head coach this season, and it feels like a natural fit. I've always had a passion for swimming and, as a former competitive swimmer myself, I love being able to pass that experience on. Coaching athletes who want to learn and grow is one of my favorite parts of the job. The confidence they build in the pool doesn't stay there: It carries over into their lives outside of swimming, and watching that happen is incredibly rewarding." People can learn more about all Erie County Special Olympics programs, which encompass many different athletic competitions, by contacting local coordinator Jill Gies at 419-366-3822 or jgiesaci@gmail.com.