Of all sports in the winter season, dive, intriguingly, seems to be a mix of adventures and relaxation. However, it is more challenging that it may appear.
Some particular skills that are key in diving include balance and explosiveness. To prepare for the hardships of diving and to build these skills, the team held pre-season workouts twice a week at the new pool and weight room at the Minnie Howard campus. The team remained focused on fundamentals, strength and flexibility in these water practices and dryland workouts
“Our workouts in both in and out of the water are to build the athletes awareness of their balance on the diving board, as well as increase flexibility to maintain their balance while going through the motions that allow them to effectively execute their dives,” said Head Coach Diller Matthews.
It seems like the most exciting part of this season for the Titan divers will be showing off the new and improved facility at the Minnie Howard campus, as they will now be able to shine within their home pool.
[Read Theogony’s preview of the swim team’s season here.]
“We have six home dual meets this year and we are planning to really focus on making the environment fun and exciting for both competitors and fans,” Matthews said.
This season, the team has a full roster — four boys and girls in each dive event — which allows for more opportunity to receive the maximum number of points overall.
Matthews said he would love to see his divers place in the top five at Virginia’s northern region championship, which would qualify them for the state championship.
“We compete in the most difficult district for swim and dive in the state,” he said. “So that accomplishment would really highlight the work these guys have been doing over the past four years.”
Junior Isabella McLemore said she was inspired to start diving by the team’s welcoming community.
“My most memorable experience on the dive team is anytime I or anyone smacks the water after a dive,” she said. “We all clap for the person when they come up from the water.”
McLemore also shared advice for students interested in diving.
“Don’t be afraid,” she said, “to try a new skill and to always get back on the board even when you keep failing.”
