On September fifth, the swim and dive team kicked off their season with an away meet against Berkeley Prep and Academy at the Lakes. The energy on deck was electric as swimmers and divers got back into competition mode, ready to test themselves after weeks of practice.

For freshman Payton Burton, this meet was a big moment, it was her very first away meet as a high school swimmer. “The meet was great, the energy was high, and it was just a fun meet being our first away meet of the season and my first away meet as a freshman,” she said.

Payton took on a full lineup of events, competing in the 500 freestyle, the 200 individual medley, the 200 freestyle relay, and the 400 freestyle relay. “I think that I personally did pretty well,” she explained. “I was hitting times right about where I should be at the point in the season.”

While she was proud of her own performance, Burton was she was quick to highlight everyone else that competed. “I think that the team did a phenomenal job. Everyone pulled their weight and we were all cheering each other on throughout the meet,” she said. That support made the meet feel even more special.

The thrill of competing again gave Burton an unforgettable feeling. “During the meet I felt amazing, it was like runner’s high. Once you start going and doing well in your events, you just get this adrenaline rush,” Payton explained.

In the end, the meet was more than just races and times. For Payton, it was about connection too. “I had a great time at the meet,” she said. “It was so much fun to be around my friends and  for all of us to push each other to be our best.”

The season may have just begun, but with this kind of performance, it’s clear the team is ready to make waves all year.