An engine to a car is a coach to a team, both are small pieces to a much bigger puzzle, yet integral parts to their function. Coach Sandy Thomerson has done nothing short of proving to be a vital piece to the swim and dive team, having been the head coach for seven years. Thomerson also served as the former Aquatics director at Jerry Long YMCA, the home pool to the Titans, and coached many of her current swimmers when they were younger. It’s a normal part of high school for athletes to graduate and leave, but it is always harder when a coach’s reign comes to an end.
“I will miss the kids and the competition the most; high school swimming I find to be the most fun. Going into my last season, I want all the kids to have a great time and I’d love to take a large team to Regionals and have some state qualifiers,” Thomerson said.
The team is a close-knit group with all athletes rallying together for the season. Coach Sandy has worked hard to ensure that all of her athletes have long-lasting friendships and memories tied to their experience on the team.
“My favorite memory is every time she pushes me and teaches me to be better each day,” sophomore Rowen Snow said.
Junior Katie Kennedy has been on the Titans swim and dive team for three years, including when her relay broke the school record. Kennedy was devastated when she first heard that her coach would not be there for her senior year.
“She has always had confidence in me even if I didn’t. She is very passionate about swimming and her coaching and she shows it every day through her enthusiasm,” Kennedy said.
Coach Sandy has worked for years building up the swim and dive team, pushing her athletes to be the best they can. Senior night, although meant to honor seniors, will be a poignant reminder that the team will also be mourning the retirement of a wonderful coach.
“I’m looking forward to senior night because it not only will be the last home meet for us seniors, but also the last one for our coach. I think that’s a really bittersweet moment that we can all share together,” senior Emily Reese said.
The Titans will plunge into their season on Dec. 8 with an away meet at R.J. Reynolds, competing against Reynolds and Mount Tabor. Not only will this be the last first meet of the season for many seniors, it will be the last first meet for a beloved and well-respected coach.
