By Alyssa Book and Blake Dykes

The boys’ swim team is preparing to race in the most important race of the season. The team will be participating in sectional prelims this Thursday and the qualifiers will race in the sectional finals this Saturday. Both meets will take place at Highland Hills Middle School.

Sophomore Eli Anderson said that his team is prepared for the matchup.

“I think we are as prepared as we could possibly be for this meet. And I think we will definitely meet our expectations, and maybe even a little more.”

Anderson has faith in his team, but also has strict expectations for himself.

“As for myself, I would like to get a state cut in the 200 free and get a second in the 500 free.”

Sophomore Grant Anderson agrees with his other teammate in the aspect that they will be very competitive in all the races.

“This season all of us have pushed ourselves in practice more than we ever had and I don’t think we could be more ready for this meet.”

His goals are too place in the top eight in his individuals events this year.

Senior Rick Ellis has been preparing for this meet all season. With this being his final high school season, winning means more than just advancing to state. This is his last chance to reach his goals.

“I’ve worked hard and kept my goals of doing well this weekend in sight the whole way.”

Sophomore Sam Cleveland comes to realize his biggest competitor is not someone from a different school.

“I am my own biggest competition. I race the clock.”

Cleveland said the boys have prepared by weight training and technique work.

Ellis hopes that his team  and especially the seniors will leave a legacy of greatness.

“We’re some of the all around greatest people, swimmers, and friends that have been through the pool.”