Lakeside's Swimmers On Course for Another Fine Season

Dynasty is an overused descriptor in sports. But it perfect suits 's varsity swimming program. With only three regular season meets left, the girls are set to capture their 15th county title in a row, with the boys vying for an eight-straight crown.

Beyond the county championships–held for diving on Jan. 27 and swimming on Jan. 29–both teams will also be featuring in the state championships. 

For fourth-year head coach Tricia Newmyer, keeping the Lakeside tradition alive owes much to participants' attitude.

"They don't just sit around, and the kids take pride in themselves and work hard," she said. "They're committed to their academics. They're studious."

While swimming is considered a team sport, key individuals play a big part in deciding outcomes. And for the boys, senior Jack Lane has been a standout. The two-time state champion in 2009 has already qualified for the postseason in three events – 50 freestyle (22.57), 100 freestyle (52.37) and 200 freestyle (1:49.75).

Lane, who will attend Stanford University next year, missed the 2010 state championships due to illness and is eager to match the feats of his sophomore year. 

"He's put in years of pain, sweat and tears," said Newmyer. "He's a great leader and very goal-oriented. But he's also humble, cheering for other kids."

Also qualifying in three state events is Cesar Acosta: the 200 (1:50.37), 200 individual medley (2:08.10), and the 500 freestyle (5:02.22).

Other Lakeside qualifiers for state are Jason Arne in the 100 (57.78) and 200 IM (2:09.81); Wilson Couture in the 100 breaststroke (1:06.01), and John Ewing in the 200 freestyle (1:55.60). Additionally, these swimmers make up the state-qualifying relay team, set to compete in three events.     

The girls team will also be well represented in relay events, while Rebecca Boyer carries the school's hopes in the diving competition. Freshman Lizzy White is one to look out for, particularly in the future, Newmyer said.

"She really wants to please and be the best," the coach said. "She's not a [team] leader yet, but leads in the pool and is very coachable."

Expecting a team state championship may be unrealistic, admits Newmyer, given the number of private schools dominating the sport. But she said she'll be thrilled to finish as Class AAAA's best public school.

"We have a chance of that if everyone stays healthy," she said. "It's a dynasty, Lakeside has success with this program."