News Summary

The Lyons Township High School girls swimming and diving team is gearing up for a promising season under new coach Brendan Weibel. With five seasoned senior all-staters and an influx of talented freshmen, the team aims for a top-three finish at the state meet. The Lions recently won both LT Relays and the KP Invitational, showcasing their potential. Coach Weibel emphasizes team depth and individual improvement, creating an environment ripe for success. The team is committed to unity and excellence as they dive into the 2023 season.

Lyons Township High School Girls Swimming Team Aims for Success Under New Coach Brendan Weibel

In the delightful city of La Grange, the Lyons Township High School girls swimming and diving team is making waves as they gear up for an exciting season under the guidance of their new coach, Brendan Weibel. This season is especially promising, as the program boasts five senior all-staters ready to take the plunge into success. Maeve Collins, Lindsay Forebaugh, Dylan Jorgensen, Anna Pansing, and Kylie Thompson are not just experienced swimmers—they are eager to defend and enhance their records this year.

Fresh Faces Joining the Roster

But wait, there’s more! This year’s team isn’t just about seasoned veterans. The addition of talented freshmen is sure to shake things up and bring a new flair to the already dynamic group. These newcomers are expected to make an immediate impact, and the coaches are buzzing with excitement about their potential. The combination of youthful energy and seasoned skill sets the stage for a thrilling season.

Aiming for the Podium

Historically, the Lions haven’t clinched a trophy at the state meet since their third-place finish in 1995. But that is all about to change! Under Weibel’s leadership, who graduated from LTHS himself in 2014, the team is aiming high. Last season, the Lions finished with a respectable fifth place at state, racking up 146 points and smashing a stunning six school records along the way. The team is steadfast in their mission to elevate their performance this year and aims for that coveted top-three finish!

Building on Last Year’s Performance

The Lions have already kicked off their season with a bang, having won both their annual LT Relays and the Hinsdale Central’s KP Invitational by outscoring Rosary by an impressive 34 points. This proves that the team is not only hopeful but also ready to compete at the highest levels.

Strength in Depth

Coach Weibel places strong emphasis on the team’s depth this season. Each swimmer improving individually will lay the groundwork for collective team success. It’s a strategy that has already shown promise, with standout swimmers like Collins and Forebaugh committing to collegiate swimming, solidifying the team’s competitive edge. Collins impressively holds the school record for the 100-yard butterfly at a blazing speed of 55.04 seconds.

A Diverse and Experienced Lineup

In addition to the seniors, the Lions are supported by experienced juniors like Claire Collins and Claire Crimmins, along with promising sophomores Olivia Sanchez and Abby Thompson. The freshmen pool includes talents like Anna Fagans, Molly Forebaugh, Tatum Fridrych, and Sydney Kail, who are excited to dive into the competitive atmosphere. Not to forget, in diving, junior Brynn Krantz is a returning state qualifier, and sophomore Abby Rehor is poised to make waves of her own.

Strategic Adaptations for Success

The Lions plan to utilize multiple lineups throughout the season for a strategic advantage. Last year saw success in the 200 medley relay where Thompson and Collins finished third, with many relays consistently landing in the top spots. Collins made headlines last season too, achieving fifth place in the 100 fly at the state meet and earning honorable mention all-state recognition.

The Team’s Spirit and New Initiatives

The enthusiasm is contagious as Pansing and her teammates are ready to build on last year’s performance. They are fully committed to aiming for a top-three state finish this season by focusing on great teamwork and individual athlete development under the new coaching staff. A fresh training regimen that includes weight lifting, while breaking the larger team into smaller, tailored practice groups, is now in effect, promising to hone the skills of each swimmer effectively.

Looking Forward

The returning cast from last year’s successful state entries brings a sense of optimism to the 2023 season. The seniors are dedicated to maintaining team unity and performance excellence, and as they compete, it’s clear that Lyons Township High School is not only going after wins but also striving to create an unforgettable season together. With a focused mindset and a supportive environment, the Lions are ready to make a splash!

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