On Friday Mar. 20, girls and boys swim celebrated and honored the seniors on the team with a senior night celebration followed by a dominant win against San Rafael. The girls won 105-36 and the boys won 122-18.
Seniors Vendula Davidova, Morgan Sicklick, Shane Pastel, Rebecca Duran, Oliver Rogers and Gabriella Grow were all honored by their team, family and coaches. Handmade signs and flowers were presented to them by their coaches and teammates.
When looking back at the time spent in the pool over the years, Pastel felt that swimming was a constant place to find peace.
“Swimming has just become such a great way for me to escape my stress cause I feel like swimming is very therapeutic and no matter where I am I know I can always swim and reconnect with it,” Pastel said.
Davidova, a new addition to the swim team, expressed how swimming has impacted her Redwood experience and has made her feel welcome.
“I love practices and the community. I feel much more welcome at school. The community is a really big part. The girls, guys and coaches are all amazing,” Davidova said.
The impact the seniors have on the team continues outside of the pool by providing a mentor to younger athletes on the team.
Sophomore Aviva Berkowitz spoke about how the seniors have been supportive teammates and good role models.
“They encourage us to try new events and help push past any mental blocks through sharing their own experiences and making sure you don’t feel alone with your experience on the team,” Berkowitz said.
As they prepare for their departure next season, the seniors left some advice for younger swimmers.
“Don’t be scared, just jump into the water and just swim. Even though you might be nervous, it’s gonna go away the second you’re in the water,” Davidova said.
