The Bobcat swimming and diving team is diving headfirst into a new season!

Despite the hurdles of the team not currently practicing at home and a very late practice time the team has grown tremendously.

The Bobcats are currently practicing at the Blackhawk High School five days a week from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Last year the team consisted of 22 swimmers including four divers, while this season the team is sitting at around 35 swimmers and six divers (some divers also swim).

Junior Cailin Downer said, “The team this year is looking like a pretty even mix of new and returning swimmers. Going into my second year, it’s going to be fun swimming with both. You can learn from more experienced people and help the younger members too.”

Specifically, the boys’ team is looking towards a winning season.

The girls’ team is also looking up—but they also lost many key figures last season who left large shoes to fill, specifically on their relays.

Team captain senior Brandon Osborne, who completed last year in states, is hoped to lead the team to wins and potentially to another WPIAL and state appearance through breaststroke, freestyle, the individual medley, and multiple relays.

Other team captains include seniors Robert Cestra and Olivia Wooley, and junior Lizzy Michael.

Along with the many seniors on the team, juniors Graham Lovra and Michael are leading the team to greatness.

Lovra and Michael are returning WPIAL qualifiers, as well as Michael placing eighth at the WPIAL championship for diving.

“We have a lot of new team members this year which makes it really exciting, and we’re all really looking forward to the start of the season,” Michael said.

The ongoing indoor pool renovation has recently picked up speed with only the final finishing touches remaining.

The pool is now filled with water, the lane lines and flags have been brought back indoors, and the large gap in the side of the school used for construction access was recently filled with new large windows.

The infamously terrible Bobcat starting blocks have also been replaced with wonderful sliding blocks.

There is a brief video tour published on the Beaver Area Swim and Dive Facebook page showcasing the new pool in its nearly completed state—but a firm completion date remains elusive.

The team looks forward to their first meet against Seton LaSalle High school December 15.

Fifth-year head coach Marc Williams and assistant coach Jason Bonnar returning for his second year will continue leading the Bobcats.