After more than six months out of the water, the Sea Lions return to the pool tonight.  There was a large signup of returning and new swimmers and the practice sessions will be split into two groups to allow for distancing.  Also new for this year, swimmers will be starting from both ends, for more safety and distancing.  Locker rooms will be closed for now, with swimmers coming to practice ready to swim.

The added precautions will mean more coaches will be needed, not only for the extra time, but for swimmers waiting for instructions at both ends as well.  The Sea Lions have brought in two additional coaches, both former Sea Lions, as well as a few new junior coaches (high school swimmers).  Head Coach Andy Murray is back, along with newly named SJHS Boys Head Coach, Peter Sperry.

“Swimmers will have to get used to wearing masks on deck and wearing their suits under their clothes, especially in the winter, but its all worth it.  Safety is the main priority, getting back to what we love is a close 2nd” says board president, Chris Hallead.  “We’re not sure how the meet schedule will work out this year, but I’m sure we will figure out something, even if it has to be virtual meets.  Swimmers are like fish, we can’t be out of the water for too long…”

Numbers are up and for safety reasons, registration had to be closed for now.  However, the Sea Lions are excited with the continued growth of the club and look forward to future sessions when things are back to normal.  Today would have been co-founder, Fred Meyer’s 100th Birthday and the Sea Lions think he would be proud of the direction the club is heading in.  The future of swimming is bright in St. Johns.  Go Sea Lions, Go Redwings!

SJSportsPage.com

Supporting the St. Johns Athletic Boosters Club!

Share Redwing Success!

Interview – Parker Beebee, JV Soccer Goaltender