by LINDSAY PATTON-CARSON
For Rockford Riptide, this winter session has been a long one. Multiple snow days interrupted the winter session, but the swimmers have not let it affect their performances.
Every swimmer showed an ability to adapt quickly to schedule changes, and as a result, 27 swimmers have qualified in 120 events at the Junior Olympics, which was to be held in Battle Creek March 4-6.
“We are very proud of all our swimmers and the effort they put into the long winter season, and excited to see what they accomplish at our championship meets,” said Michael Cutler, head coach for Rockford Riptide.
The Junior Olympics meet is significant for the Riptide swimmers in that it gives them one last opportunity to qualify for the state meet, which will start March 11-13 in Zeeland for the 12-and-under age group, and end March 18-20 at Eastern Michigan University with the 13-and-over age group.
Currently, Riptide has 24 swimmers that have qualified for the state meet in more than 90 events.
“Riptide is pleased to be a part of such a strong aquatics program in this community with swimming, water polo, school teams, Community Ed, age group and elite groups,” Cutler said.
Rockford Riptide swim team is a USA Swimming competitive swim program designed for swimmers ages 5 to 18. Competitive swimming experience is not needed prior to joining.
“I’m proud of the level of dedication the group has shown, and I’m excited to see how that will pay off in the next couple of weeks,” said David Carson, assistant coach for Rockford Riptide.
The spring session runs from April 11 to May 26 and focuses on technique and stroke development. New swimmer evaluations and registration will be on Tuesday, March 15 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Rockford High School pool. See www.riptide.org, or e-mail Suelyn Ritsema at sritsema@riptide.org for more information.
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