BEACON FALLS — The Hawks are getting a lift from their youngest swimmers — just in time for the NVL finals.
When the conference’s final meet takes place this Saturday, the Woodland swim team should be well represented in numerous races.
“Over the last few weeks, our younger swimmers have been stepping up,” Woodland head coach Mike Magas said.
It started on Oct. 8 in a 93-87 victory over Suffield.
Junior Sarah Bryden won the 50 free and the 100 back, and was part of the 400 free relay winning team with sophomores Tatianna Lynn, Taylor Amore and Veronica Dergachev.
“I don’t think they realized how needed they were,” Magas said. “They’re taking on the roles of juniors and seniors. It was their time to shine.”
The freshman class has also seen productive time in several events.
Kyla Drewry and Brooke Pope, both freshmen, have been in big spots. Pope has been a part of several relay victories in the last several weeks.
“They’ve been stepping up and filling big shoes,” Magas said.
Other freshmen — Carly Erickson, Jordan Theroux and Jordan Williams — have also contributed.
“They have tremendous upside and they want to get better,” Magas said.
The younger swimmers have been able to learn from the team’s captains — Sara Fowler, Emma Sardinskas, Katie Drewry and Kiley Soulier.
“They’ve filled the roles of captain nicely,” Magas said. “They’ve been leaders in and out of the pool.”
Fowler has been one of the league’s best divers and Magas said “she’s feeling confident” heading into the NVL finals.
Also, juniors Lisa Thrasher and Morgan Reichard are peaking at the right time.
Reichard has made a late season push and put up best times during the last two meets, Magas added.
“Lisa is ready explode at the NVLs,” Magas said.
Some of her teammates might be following her this week.
The NVL diving championships are Thursday at 6 p.m. at Kennedy High School in Waterbury. The swim finals are Saturday at Kennedy at 4 p.m.
