Ida B. Wells’ swim team is once again returning to the deep end for this 2023-24 winter season as the Southwest Community Center lap pool is returning to a lively state, filled with IBW students. Winter sports can fly below the radar of athletics here at IBW, but the talent on the team deserves a spotlight and our attention as a student body.  

“The season’s going good,” said Ben Stawinski, a swim captain and senior at IBW. “We’ve been getting first or second place against most of the schools we’re racing against.” The swim team had recently faced Roosevelt and Lincoln in a meet on December 1, 2023. With close losses in both men’s 113-106 L and women’s 122-118 L against Lincoln, but two major wins against Roosevelt in both men’s 67-38 W and women’s 58-34 W, the Guardians took the second place spot. On December 8, the Women’s team managed to beat both Lincoln and Grant in a meet. 

Ida B. Wells Swim has both varsity and JV options for athletes, but it’s extremely flexible when determining which team your skill set falls into. “There are varsity races and JV races. So, if you’re not good at a certain race you can race with JV, but if you’re good at a race then you can race varsity,” said Slyvie Kressel, a senior and IBW swim team member. The swim team tries to capitalize on every swimmer’s strengths and weaknesses, so the fluid style of varsity and JV not only benefits the team’s scores, but also takes advantage of strong individuals on the team. 

“The varsity section is pretty small, compared to the actual size of the team,” said Stawinski. “The team a little polarized, because the fastest people are across the pool from the slowest people so there’s less interaction, but I still try to cheer everybody on.” This is Stawinski’s first year as a captain, and he’s ready to lend a helping hand to newcomers. “I help the team by cheering people on and telling people a good job, sometimes I give people tips. I try to do the workout well and get to practices on time.” 

Swim is open to anyone and everyone, and it attracts plenty of pre-existing athletes in Ida B. Wells just looking for a workout. “It’s a really good workout. You’re going to get into good shape if you’re going to swim,” said Stawinski. It’s also a no-cut sport, which can bring out a lot of students looking for a more low-pressure sport. “It’s no cut, so it’s more inclusive,” said Kressel. Swimming is also a great option for those who have pre-existing injuries since swimming is easier on joints and is seen as a recovery opportunity. 

While practices happen at the Southwest Community Center just a five-minute drive from IBW, meets happen elsewhere. “All PIL (Portland Interscholastic League) meets are at Matt Dishman Community Center, including district qualifiers for state,” said Stawinski. Matt Dishman is located in Northeast Portland, so prepare for a slight drive if you’re interested in joining or watching a meet. The state meet is located at Tualatin Hills Aquatic Center if you’re interested in cheering on your fellow Guardians at their biggest event on February 16, 2024.

The Ida B. Wells Swim team is off to a great start and is swimmingly heading towards districts and possibly state meets. It’s not too late to consider jumping into the pool although, as the Ida B. Wells Swim team is open to all interested students. “It’s a good team and good coaches,” said Kressel. “One of the better of athletics in Ida B. Wells.”