As the 2024-2025 swim season ended on Nov. 15, the Panthers swam fast at the WIAA state swim meet.
The swim season ended very well despite some challenges throughout the year. From the pool breaking to unbalanced chlorine levels and other unexpected issues, the swim team did not back down.
“My first season as head coach was memorable. There were a lot of unexpected obstacles, but we were able to get through it together as a team and it made us stronger,” head coach Grace Bodus said. “It was so much fun being able to come back to Greendale Swimming after being a swimmer myself.”
At the first big meet of the season varsity conference, the team was able to get a gold medal in 7 out of the 12 events.
At this meet freshman Katelyn Anderson broke the school record for the 100 butterfly dating back to 2006. The previous record was held by Jenna Lennertz with a time of 58:16 with Anderson going 58:00.
The team had a very successful sectional meet, leading to a successful state. At sectionals the 200 medley relay as well as the 400 freestyle relay both qualified for state. Katelyn Andeson, Lydia Anderson, and Chloe Yerkes all qualified for state in individual races. These three individuals and sophomore Bailey Sowa swam in the relays at state.
At the WIAA state meet, the Panthers had four podium finishes. The 200 medley relay managed to get sixth place. Then at state, Anderson broke the school record again with her fastest time being 57:09. Yerkes was also on the podium that night, getting fifth in the 100 backstroke. Sophomore Julie Lehman also traveled with the team to the state meet as an alternate.
“The state meet was so fun this year especially because we all did so well,” Lydia Anderson said.
