It was a great turnout for the year as junior Brenden Bolman made it to State in two of his events, while representing the Grayslake North swimming team.

“I placed 26th in [the 100 yard freestyle] and 10th in [the 50 yard freestyle],” Bolman said.

Many people do not know about all of the activities that kids participate in at school.  This includes the swimming team. Many students at the school are involved in this activity and are proud to represent the school.

Aside from Bolman, other Grayslake North swimmers still achieved success, despite not reaching State. Senior Nathan Mack swam a personal best time in the 50 meter freestyle and the 100 meter freestyle, sophomore Max Haubrich swam a personal best in the 100 meter breaststroke, and freshman Zach Yadanza swam a personal best in the 100 meter backstroke.

“We had two female swimmers and four male swimmers this year,” said athletic director Tina Woolard. “I am pleased that we are able to offer them the opportunity to represent Grayslake North in our Conference swim meet and at Sectionals.  This year, for the third year in a row, we also had representation at the IHSA swim meet. I am very glad we have swimmers at North that represent us very well,” Woolard said.

The swimming team for Grayslake North consists of many swimmers who swim in clubs when not swimming for the school, which includes Bolman, who swims for Cats Aquatics when not swimming at school events. However, unlike many other schools, Grayslake North does not have an official club, which makes it harder on Grayslake North swimmers.

“IHSA has a by law that prevents swimmers without an official team or pool to practice with their club team. Since North does not have an official team, I swim club year round. I was able to overcome this by just focusing on the things I could control and prepped for State like I would any other meet,” Bolman said.

The complicity of the club and what the swimmers have to go through to swim is outstanding, from swimming year-round, to working out. Dedication is key for the club, and they strive to represent themselves and the school to the best of their ability.