The PLU swim team made a splash at their home opener on November 1 and 2, battling tough competition from Whitman and Whitworth in front of an energized crowd at the pool on lower campus. On Nov. 1, the men’s team scored 76-122, and 62-140 on Nov. 2; the women’s team scored 78-126 and 39-161 respectively.
Head coach Andrew Lum noted the large turnout, saying that many people came to support the team, with some even having to stand because the bleachers were full. Scout Hawkins, a freshman on the women’s team, expressed that “the meets are super hyped.”
With the season just starting, there are goals to achieve and much more to come from the PLU swim team. Lum shared some of the team’s goals for the year: “Our men want to make a really big move in the conference ranking.” Last year the men placed seventh out of nine. Lum added that they “ want to end up in the top four this year [and] get some relays in the top three.”
Men’s swimmer Tyler Tanaka shared that his ambition for the year is to keep the team’s ranks up, “seeing how everyone does, [and] just have fun.” On a personal note, Tanaka added that “Going for a best time is always the goal.”
Lum noted that individuals on the women’s side are aiming to qualify for Division III nationals, a feat rarely accomplished by multiple swimmers in a single year. Freshman Scout Hawkins also has high aspirations. “I’d love to be [in the] top five, if not top three, at conference,” she said, emphasizing her focus on “personal growth and achievement.”
The swim team shares a close bond. Hawkins explained that, “Swimming is one of the most connected sports. I think all of us as a team are really, really close. I think we bonded really well.” Tanaka added, “It’s small enough where everyone matters. You know everyone personally, and you have the opportunity to know everyone.”
When talking to Lum he said that the team “motivates me to wake up every day and ask how I can better serve myself and others.” The swim team fosters a community-focused environment and gives back to those around them. Lum highlighted the team’s community involvement, stating that “If anyone out there wants more community engagement from athletics programs, please reach out to me.”
Some of the community engagement activities they do are helping out with community dinners at the church, hosting public swim lessons in the spring and summer, and helping with the Special Olympics and other sports clinics. The entire team “wants to do our part to be really engaged community members—not just Parkland or Pierce County, but in general.” Tanaka mentioned that “Last year we did timing for the Masters, like the Master Swimming Championships.”
When PLU hosts community events they take place in the same place for the team’s swim meets. Coach Lum encourages everyone to attend, saying “Come to some swim meets; the energy is awesome.”
