Swim and dive is scored differently from other team sports. Swimmers compete in various events such as relays and freestyle. The faster they swim, the higher their score. Divers are scored on three different categories: style, technique, and difficulty. They receive a score between one and ten, but “you rarely see anything over a seven,” said McCuskey.
The swim and dive team works together for a final score for placement. However, it is rare that an individual would compete for both teams. The dive team consists of six girls and is captained by McCuskey. “It’s a rare skill set to be graceful and pretty in the air and fast in the water, but it’s been done,” said Esterberg.
The captains make it a point to be involved in their team. “[Marissa Esterberg] gives really funny pep talks and is good at pumping everyone up,” said McCuskey. Captains this year have organized sleepovers, early morning breakfast runs and even outings to Twins games in an effort to bring the team together.
“This year we have kept a positive attitude, and we just accept that we lost some strong swimmers that help bring the team to victory,” said junior team member, Carley Betsch. The team will head to sections on Nov. 8 and if they qualify, will head to state on Nov. 15th.