Eagles soar in the water

Following a phenomenal state championship season, the Godwin swim and dive team began their new season as of Dec. 2 with their first meet at Nova Regency. 

The boys’ team’s 2022 – 2023 season concluded with a smashing record of 7 – 0, followed by a state championship, whereas the girl’s team season put up a respectable 4-3 record.

This year’s team features swimmers with college interests, offers, and commitments. 

The team is led by six senior captains: Adam Fisher, Keira Reid, William Bremer, Alivia Hutcheson, Veronica Burdsall, and Jiei Ota.

Reid has swum her whole life, working hard to improve her skills.  It is safe to say that her efforts have paid off, as she has recently committed to Penn State University to swim. Reid swims distance events in freestyle and butterfly. 

Fisher will continue his swimming career at the collegiate level as he recently committed to the University of Lynchburg, a Division Three school. Fisher has been in the sport since he was five years old and hasn’t stopped since. He has been on the Godwin swim team all four years of high school and swimming for NOVA in his spare time. 

Godwin senior William Bremer is one of the captains. He’s been swimming since he was eight and has swum for NOVA for three years. He’s also a swimmer for the Canterbury Recreation Association. Bremer swims the 100m breaststroke and freestyle. Bremer preaches hard work and camaraderie to the team and is a team pillar. Bremer said, “Being a part of the Godwin Swim Team means you respect your teammates and competitors and always try your best.”

Another Godwin senior, Hutchenson, is one of the team captains. This season will be Hutchenson’s fourth year on the Godwin team and her eighth for NOVA. Hutchinson swims short-distance freestyle and backstroke. Being a strong competitor and being supportive are the two biggest things Hutchenson preaches as a captain.

Godwin junior Veronica Burdsall is a returning captain in only her third year on the team. Burdsall has a history at NOVA and swims for her neighborhood team.

Last but not least, Godwin Senior Ota is another captain. This season will be Ota’s fourth consecutive year for the team. Ota swims all short distances, his favorite being the 50 freestyle. Ota states, “Being a part of the team means you always support your teammates and always remain dedicated.”

A swimmer with an early commitment, Kate Hotem accepted her offer from Notre Dame recently. Hotem is a Godwin junior ranked 5th in Virginia. She attended the Speedo Junior National Championships and placed 6th in the 200m backstroke race.

Following last season, the swim team is shooting high to keep their standard of winning. The team’s talent in the water, combined with their captain’s leadership, will set them up for a good upcoming season.