The Parrish Community swim team is off to a powerful start this season, making history before even entering the water. With 12 boys on the roster, the largest boys team the program has ever had, and 7 girls competing this year, the team is growing in both size and ambition. 

That ambition shows up early every morning. The swimmers arrive at 5 a.m. during the week for practice, often before most students are even awake. Despite the tough schedule, the team has embraced the challenge, and it is safe to say it’s working for them! 

For the girls team, senior Ella Stanford leads the way as captain. Stanford has been part of the swim program since her freshman year and is known for her leadership and positive attitude. She explains the difference as well as the growth from her freshman year to her senior year.  

“It’s just cool because I remember first day of practice freshman year and I thought I was going to drown and was regretting everything and now look where I am, doing butterfly willingly for a set!”  

Stanford also comments on the difference in size between the teams stating, “There’s a lot of guys, but the girls hold their own and we have really great people on our team which makes it very fun.”  

The girls team is sure to have a season to remember with their high team spirit and determined attitudes.  

The team’s first meet on Wednesday, August 26 against Lakewood Ranch and LWR Preparatory Academy gave swimmers a chance to show what those early mornings have been building toward. One of the standout performances came from junior Ryan Davis, who broke the school record in the Boys 100 butterfly. Davis' time not only earned him first place at the meet but also set a new benchmark for future swimmers.  

Davis describes what helped him get to this level explaining, “My training outside of swim practice like going to the gym and eating better has made a big difference.” Davis continues to better his training and techniques in and out of the pool, putting in hard work day in and day out.  

The combination of Head Swim Coach Courtney Lancaster, and the mix of experienced athletes like Stanford and Davis, along with a wave of new swimmers, has created a strong team dynamic. The larger roster has allowed for more relay options, more competition within practices, and more energy overall.  

"It's going to take a lot of experimenting to find everyone's strengths this season," said Lancaster. "Particularly the boys, there will be a battle for relay spots at the end of the season." 

Lancaster also said the goal is to focus on individual growth as well as overall team spirit. She is coaching alone this year and is striving to balance the demands of the season. 

As the season continues, both teams hope to build on their early success. With record numbers, record-breaking swims, and a group of athletes willing to show up before sunrise, the swim team is proving they’re ready to make this year one of their strongest yet.