Now that all of the fall sports have wrapped up, it’s time to gear up for the winter season at LFHS. Headlining this year’s winter season is the Boys Swimming and Diving team. The long early morning practices are going to be crucial if the Scouts want to build off their success last year.

Looking to improve on a strong year last year, the Scouts are returning three state qualifiers from last year with seniors Oliver Akintade and Luke Lanigan along with junior Colin Kingsley. Lanigan is looking to lead the squad this year after qualifying for the state meet for 200m freestyle, 100m freestyle, 200m free relay, and the 400m free relay.

The Scouts are led by Cindy Dell, head swimming coach at the high school since 2003, who previously coached Lake Forest Swim Club starting in 1990. This year isn’t just going to be all about returning talent, as the Scouts have a slew of talented freshmen, including Dylan Walsh, Harrison Moore, John Pinn, Connor Boyle, and Winston Thuente.

The Scouts aren’t going to be led by just one or two people; it’s going to be a team effort if they want success. “Every swimmer on our team is a contributing member and respects each others’ talents,” Ms Dell said.

After last season, the Scouts are looking for a top-2 finish in the conference this year along with more success at the state meet. “We expect to send numerous swimmers and divers to state and to come back and to swim at finals on Saturday,” Ms Dell said.

For the divers this year, they are going to be led by junior Eli Brezak and senior Chase Rupprecht.

After a successful season, the Scouts have set high expectations after seeing the girls team’s achievements in the fall. “Going to state is the main goal,” Break said, “especially because I know we have the strength and the mindset to do so.”

Another exciting diver on the team is Rocco Caputo. The talented freshman has already shown his teammates what he’s capable of and is ready to go. Not only is he skilled when leaping off the diving board, but his positive attitude keeps himself and his teammates motivated to do better.

“He always brings such a positive attitude to whatever he does,” Brezak said.

After last year’s accomplishments, both teams are ready to get the season going and hope to improve after a long offseason. You can catch the Swimming and Diving team as they hit the road for their opening meet against the Mundelein Mustangs on Thursday, Dec 12.