Girls’ swim kicked off their season Nov. 10 with their first practice. The girls are coming off of a successful season, placing second at the Cape Girardeau meet and finishing fourth in their conference last year, despite having had a small team of only 16 girls. This year, the team has grown and is led by captains Brielle DeRuisseau (12), Ruby Jurgiel (11), Mia Singer (11) and Annabelle Shepley (12).

“We have a much bigger team this year so I’m really excited to see everyone work together,” DeRuisseau said. “We have many seasoned swimmers as well as hardworking new swimmers, and I know everyone will have a lot to learn from each other.”

Every new swim season raises the question of who will be swimming which events, relays and more. Although it can be nerve-wracking, it allows for people to try out for different events and provides everyone with an equal opportunity.

“There’s a lot of anxiety when a new season starts, but with change comes adaptation,” DeRuisseau said. “People have the chance to explore what they want to do and discover what they’re good at. This wouldn’t be possible if everyone always swam the same events.”

The team is feeling optimistic heading into this season. They are focusing on more than pool times, and are hoping to instill a strong sense of community.

“I have loved my time on the Ladue swim team and I have high hopes that this season will be fun and fulfilling,” DeRuisseau said. “As a captain, I hope that I can build confidence in younger swimmers in all aspects of their lives, not just in the pool.”