At the crack of dawn, while the majority of the student body lies asleep in their warm beds, the Milford Girls’ Swim Team plunges into the frigid waters of yet another morning practice. However, according to the girls, the experience and companionship they share is worth the hard work.

Sophomore Leana Durbin, who placed seventh in the 100-backstroke at the Wayne Invitational, stresses the importance of being able to cope with such a rigorous schedule. “If you’re going to be on the team, it’s a huge commitment. You really need to be able to manage your time,” she stated. “But it is definitely worth it because the people are so great.”

Assistant Coach Chris Follick, with eight years of coaching experience, likewise comments on the relationship between the girls.

“Everyone is kind and respectful to each other,” he observed. “They have a way of being warm and accepting towards everyone, and making new swimmers especially feel welcome.”

Senior captain and high-placing back-stroker Brenna Kolb perfectly sums up the team’s chemistry: “We’re one big, happy family,” she said. “Crazy, maybe, but very happy.”

Being part of this “family” not only means the swimmers get along well socially, but they also push each other to put forth their best efforts in practice and at meets. This includes the mandatory morning practices in which attendance is required to obtain a varsity letter, a new policy initiated by Milford’s new girl’s swim coach, Kris Goodrich.

“Achieving varsity status should be worth a lot of effort,” stated Goodrich. “It requires dedication, perseverance, and drive.”

Goodrich, with 26 years of coaching experience in the aquatics field, understands that the team has struggled as a result of the transition between four coaches in the last four years. “This inconsistency can make adjustment difficult,” she admitted.

However, Goodrich plans on constructing a strong, long-term swim program, focusing on technique and improving individual times.

“We don’t let past losses daunt us or let other teams dictate what we do,” Goodrich said. “Our main goal is simply to swim faster than the last time.”

Follick agrees with Goodrich’s views. “Giving your personal best and having a positive attitude is the true measure of success,” he remarked. “Each time-drop we earn is reflective of these attitudes, as well as the successful workout regiment we provide.”

The swimmers highly encourage any students interested in joining the swim team to come check it out for themselves, exclaiming that there is so much more to swim than just swimming, but it also allows one to create memories that will last a lifetime.

“I love the people so much,” gushed an enthusiastic sophomore Jillian McGinnis, who placed fourth in the 50-free at the meet against Hartland. “My favorite memories are team parties and sleepovers, and having fun with our special team cheers!”

Coaches Goodrich and Follick are also always excited to welcome new additions to the team, and advise potential swimmers to come participate next fall.

“Swimming is different from other sports due to the lack of oxygen, which can scare some people,” Assistant Coach Follick admitted. “But there’s nothing wrong with coming down, giving it an honest try, and seeing what you think.”

Potential swimmers are also encouraged to participate in pre-season swim programs, such as the year-round Huron Valley Penguins team, as well as attending year-round workouts and summer practices, which begin at the start of July. This will allow potential swimmers to improve technique and get in shape for the upcoming season.

For any questions regarding the team, Coach Goodrich can be reached at [email protected].