By Mikael Desanto
Staff Writer
The women’s swimming and diving team won’t be swimming again until Jan. 16, but that hasn’t stopped the team’s seniors from reflecting on the season and their careers.
Senior Adelyn Graf has been on a roller-coaster ride in her last year and recognized that it is the end.
“The final season has been emotional so far,” Graf said. “At times, it is exciting that it is our last time to put it all out there, but then at other times, it is sad and scary that once we are done with this season, we are done for good.”
Fellow senior Shannon Haberman shared Graf’s feelings but also seemed excited to end her career on a high note.
“The season has been going well so far, but it is strange to think that this is my final season,” Haberman said. “Since we are about halfway done with the season, the finality of the season has not hit me yet, but I am excited to see how well the team will perform at A-10s.”
The team has changed a lot since the seniors started, as senior Tanja Kirmse pointed out.
“The biggest change was probably the change in coaches – from Seth Johnson to Krista Carlson after my freshman year,” Kirmse said. “Although I really enjoyed swimming for Seth, Krista has definitely added value to the program, especially changing some aspects of our training and the structure of the season.”
Graf saw only improvement in the team’s work ethic and performance this season.
“The team as a whole this year is the best I have seen in my four years,” Graf said. “We are a really good group of hard workers, everyone wants to be a part of the team, and we all get along.”
Ending their careers the right way is important to all the seniors, and they know what they have to do to go out the way they want, according to Haberman.
“I have been swimming for 18 years of my life, and I do not remember a time when I was not swimming, so I want to make the last few meets memorable,” Haberman said. “I have specific goal times that I want to reach, and ending with personal best swims would make the end of my career amazing.”
Graf also knew how she wants to end her career well and leave the team satisfied with what she has accomplished.
“I want to give it all I have and have no regrets with my last season,” Graf said. “Whatever happens, happens, but I want to make sure I put it all out there.”
They also know how important their roles as seniors are. Kirmse reflected on the competition that comes with Division I swimming.
“…enjoy every moment of being with the team, being in the water, pushing oneself to the limit and racing at meets,” Kirmse said. “No matter how hard it was, I will miss swimming and especially the competitions.”
Haberman focused on team building and a senior’s role in it.
“We need to continue the traditions and help the underclassmen grow as we have,” Haberman said. “Swimming has prepared us for all the obstacles in life because it has thrown all kinds of challenges our way and as leaders of the team we were the first line of defense.”
Graf found not taking anything for granted most important to her final season.
“I think the most important thing for a senior to do in her last season is appreciate everything,” Graf said. “Appreciate the sport itself — the competition it brings, the motivation it creates, appreciate the people you have met from the sport, enjoy your last moments with them, and appreciate being able to eat whatever you want probably for the last time in your life.”
All three have final messages to send to the team before they leave. Kirmse loved her time here and wants her team to know that.
“Thank you for three awesome years!” Kirmse said directed toward her teammates.
Graf wanted to leave the team with some words of wisdom that she has learned.
“My final message to the team would be to enjoy it,” Graf said. “As hard as it is, you’re going to miss it. I never thought I would say that, but as it is coming to an end, I know that I will.”
Haberman wanted to recognize the people that have helped to shape her while here.
“To my fellow seniors, I do not know where the time has gone, but I am honored that I got to spend this time at Bonas with you, and I know that no matter where we end up in life, there will always be a special bond between us,” Haberman said. “For the underclassmen, I am so proud of each of you and know you will all do great things in the pool and life. Enjoy your time at Bonas because it goes by quicker than you will ever believe.”
