While some students are still sound asleep, the members of the Riverside Academy swim team are on their second week of early morning practices at Riverland’s Golf and Country Club. Of course, none of this would be possible without the 5-year veteran Coach Christine Duhe. 

The team has a total of 21 swimmers on the varsity team this year from seventh graders to four veteran senior swimmers. The seniors this year include: Courtney Bordelon, Corrin Cashio, Craig Matt and Brennan Maus. The returning and new members include: Andrew Babin, Emma Babin, Baylee Badeaux, Jaci Bordelon, Beaux Brock,  Kasey Bourgeois, Benjamin Duhe, Jordan Duhe, Taylor Duhe, Sofia Galvez, Cami LaRose, Sofia Perez, Brinley Roccaforte, Kayla Rummel, Hannah St. Martin,  Chloe St. Pierre and Brody Vicknair.   

“Every new year is a challenging year, especially now that I’m seeing my middle schoolers reaching varsity level. It’s going to be an exciting season,” Duhe stated. “My goal this season is to beat last year’s (times) and I truly think we have a very strong team this year.”

Duhe explained that with the younger varsity members it will be challenging for them not only competing at a higher level but getting used to swimming longer distances rather than just 50s and 100s. She also hopes the older and experienced members can take them under their wings and show them the ropes. 

“I truly believe this team is a family and will show the state the pride they have in themselves, the team, and Riverside Academy,” Duhe added. 

The swim team will compete in its first meet of the 2023 season on Saturday, Sept. 9 at 9:30 a.m. at St. James Aquatic Center in Lutcher.