Feb. 24, 2011

The second day of the conference swim meet is a challenge because it is the first full day of swimming with there being prelims and finals.

Today was just as difficult as we had predicted it to be. However, the Vikings were able to advance at least two swimmers to the top eight in every event for finals.

Carys Behn started out the night with a come-from-behind victory in the Women's 500 Yard Freestyle leaving no doubt that the womens team is a force to be reckoned with this year. Mark De Swardt and Graham Thoresen were a power combo in the Men's 500 Yard Freestyle coming first and fourth, both having personal best times.

Another notable event was the 50 Yard Freestyle for the women. Alice Sommerville, Alexandra Johansson, and Christine Kopacko finished second, third, and fourth respectively.

The team was also very fortunate to receive words of encouragement from recent Hall Of Fame Inductee, Henk Markgraaff, as well as recent swim team Alumni and current First Lieutenant Stephen Grove (Officer of the United States Navy) who bestowed the following words of wisdom upon the team.

"Life is short, and opportunities for greatness are few and far between. Each and every one of you is now at such a moment. Cherish it. Remember the legacy of those who came before you, and bask in the glory of legacy that you now create for yourself. Fight with the fury of your namesake. Each and every person who does not wear the title of Viking has come to take what is yours. They have come into your home to prove that Viking is nothing more than a mascot.

"I say that they are wrong. Now is the time! Now is the place! In the hall of the Viking, there can be only one victor. Take the prize that is yours!! LETS GO VIKES!!"