Headphones in, mind drifting at ease and disconnecting with reality is not an uncommon sight on the bus ride, especially before nine teams battle for a spot at regionals.

This Friday and Saturday, the Aquakats will be taking on the rest of District 13-6A in the district swim and dive meet at the Conroe ISD Natatorium. The process to get to this point has consisted of ten meets to familiarize themselves with the environment and ensure that the athletes and coaches are prepared for the task at hand. 

“I am trying to eat right to make sure that I am in the best shape,” senior Peyton Sewell said. “Getting my mind in the right place is also a top priority.”

Having a little bit of fun with the team helps ease the pressure that a big moment like this can create. 

“As a team, we will have a pasta party Thursday night at one of our favorite restaurants,” junior Addison Lyons said. “The purpose of this is to make sure everybody gets their carbs before the meet and have some fun in the process.”

The “anything but a backpack” day is to show support and bring upon good luck for the swim team.

“The purpose of anything but a backpack day is to show the team that we are in full support of them,” STUCO sponsor Amber Brumlow said.

Getting a lot of rest is another important thing to do before a swim meet.

“Swimming is very physically demanding, so I’m going to eat a lot of pasta and get plenty of rest,” junior Keddie Ramsden said.