Sussex Academy boys’ swim team looks at upcoming season

The Sussex Academy boys’ swim team is ready to battle for the Henlopen Conference title this season. They finished last season at 11-1 and took the Henlopen South title, but fell to Caesar Rodney in the Henlopen Conference Championships.

“It’s kind of disappointing to see so many teams taken off our schedule,” said senior Trey Mitchell. “But I’m really appreciative that we have a chance to keep swimming. I think our strength is going to be in our numbers.”

The Seahawks’ schedule went from 12 meets to seven due to the pandemic. Missing from the schedule this season are Sussex Tech, Polytech, the Salisbury School and Caravel.

“The SAS staff has been great here at the pool,” said Mitchell.

“We can always improve,” said senior Ben Sala. “We’ve gone harder than we have in the past few years. We have a lot of spirit this year. I’m just happy that we are able to be here every day. When we are in the pool, it’s just like it’s normal.”

“It’s been spectacular for the kids to athletically interact in a safe way,” said Seahawks head coach Tom Martiner. “We are trying to have as normal a season as possible in light of the pandemic. They need normalcy.”

Some swimmers who are forecast to score major points for the Seahawks are Mitchell, Sala, Tyler Burger, Chet Mariner and Jaxon Laux.

“We anticipate winning the South again,” said Martiner. “Hopefully we’ll be able to challenge for the Henlopen Conference meet.”

The Seahawks will open their season Tuesday, Jan. 19, at home against Milford.