Although their season may end Feb. 9, the girls’ swim and dive team is far away from their major event.  So far, five individuals and one relay team have qualified for the state meet, which takes place at the St. Peters Recreation Complex Feb. 17-18.

“I’m really excited for state this year,” Adrienne Meckes, junior, said. “We have a better chance of making it to finals because of the strong group of underclassmen we have.”

Jamie Fitzpatrick, sophomore, has been swimming for her club team FAST, and this is her first year swimming for Kirkwood.  She has been focusing on the individual events she is going to swim at state. She has qualified for 10 events so far.

“The best part is definitely the new people I met from the team and being with everyone all the time,” Fitzpatrick said, “and also being able to compete for Kirkwood.”

The girls prepare for the state meet by participating in intense practices and focusing on doing well at conference, Feb. 8-9 at Rockwood Summit High School.

“Our team is very strong this year, and I think we will be very successful,” Kathleen Frese, assistant coach, said.

The broad range of skill ranging across the board gives the girls’ swim and dive team a good chance and great motivation for being successful at the state meet this year.

“I am excited for having more girls there at state to cheer each other on in their events,” Frese said.