Swim team working toward strong season

After picking up a fourth-place trophy at state last year, the girls swim team returns with three of its four scorers, giving reason to believe the squad will make some noise again this year, while the boys team will look to build on improvements from last season.

Bryn Singleton is in her fifth year with the program and her second as head coach. She is assisted once again by Rosie Horton. After a record number of swimmers last year, the team is down to a bit more manageable number with a turnout of about 25 swimmers.

Seniors Brooke Robillard and Meredith Mandal, along with junior Lydia Bartlett, all scored in multiple events at state last season, giving the team real firepower.

"Of course, losing Hawley Harrer's athleticism and personality will definitely be missed, these three girls will continue to work hard," said Singleton.

Harrer is now a freshman at UCLA, playing for the Bruins' volleyball team.

Singleton inherited a pair of freshman girls with swimming experience in Cambrie Leaver and Ella Hayden, which could help offset the loss of Harrer.

Sam Mayes returns for the boys team, along with Osmond Bates, Connor Crowe, and Aaron Johnson. Gavin Todd, a junior transfer from Summit, appears ready to contribute at the varsity level as well.

The Outlaws face a perennially tough district, and the addition of Marist Catholic makes it even more competitive, according to Singleton.

People often ask where the Outlaws practice given that Sisters has no community pool. Black Butte Ranch and Sisters Athletic Club have generously stepped in over the years to make room for the team, which Singleton appreciates on a daily basis.

"We would not be able to have a team if it were not for their ongoing support," she said.

The team primarily uses the Glaze Meadow pool at Black Butte Ranch, but Sisters Athletic Club allows the team to swim when things get busy at Black Butte.

Singleton sees beyond the wins and losses when it comes to coaching.

"As a coach, my main goals are that every individual improves and, most importantly, enjoys the experience of being on a team," she said. "Some team members have goals to swim at state and even beyond high school, while others are looking to learn a new sport and improve as they go. Regardless, every member adds an important element to the team. Everyone shows up with a good attitude, open to learning, and that will make their season a success, regardless of times or places."

The team opens competition on Friday, December 7 at Newport, followed by a second meet the next day against all the teams in the district at the Kroc Center in Salem.

"This first overnight will also be a good chance to spend time together as a team," said Singleton. "We'll keep working hard to be as ready as we can to have two meets back to back."