Prep swimming: Enthusiastic Estero thrives in the pool
ESTERO — Surprise, surprise, chemistry teachers.
Water doesn’t contain hydrogen and oxygen, at least not for Estero High swimmers.
“H2O: Two parts heart, one part obsession” is the inscription on the navy blue team shirts that the Wildcats proudly wear around the pool.
In many ways, the motto is an apt description of a program whose swimmers and coach abound in enthusiasm and aren’t afraid to show it.
“I don’t know how to explain the team spirit, but it’s out of control. I love it. It’s addictive,” said Estero coach Jen Seluk. “They have pride in Estero swimming and they love being Wildcats. Everyone feels it on the pool deck.”
Indeed, as Estero faced Fort Myers and Riverdale in a meet on Tuesday evening, the Wildcats’ lungs were as impressive above the water as they were in it.
“It’s just a lot of team bonding this year. We’re big on spirit and team pride,” said senior Chloe Cusson.
As captains, it’s the job of Cusson and Rich McCaw to lead the troops on the girls and boys teams, respectively, but they also need to make sure the team’s deafening cheering is within proper perimeters.
“We are respectful of other teams,” was the reminder Cusson issued to her teammates following warm-ups.
The way Estero has performed this season — including Tuesday — no doubt the respect is reciprocal.
