The 2017-2018 swim season is quickly coming to an end as state approaches on this Friday.

Junior Evelyn Hughes has been swimming for Blue Valley since her freshman year and will compete at state after getting a time of 1:15:16 at the Topeka meet. Hughes needed a time of 1:15:21 in order to qualify.

She earned her State time at the Topeka meet three weeks ago. Hughes says the team goal is to try their best and work hard at State in hopes of placing as high as possible.

“Our team chemistry is something that helps us to be successful at meets and it make the season extremely fun,” Hughes said.

The swim team has been preparing for State since the end of February with morning and afternoon practice. “Right now we are tapering so we are not swimming as much and our sets are shorter. We also do visualization to mentally prepare and envision a successful race,” Hughes said.

She said tapering and visualizing are crucial for preparation because they help her feel as confident as possible going into state. “I’m nervous but also so excited to compete and see what this team can do,” Hughes said.  

State is scheduled for May 17-19 at the Topeka-Capitol Federal Natatorium.

“The best part of swim is the relationships and best friends I have made through the hours we spend together,” Hughes said, “Swim is a lot of work, It’s hard and frustrating at times but I wouldn’t change it or do any other sport.”