WICHITA, Kan.—
The Wichita East girls’ swim and dive team has yet to lose a City League dual this season. Which makes the storyline for the Lady Blue Aces very similar to what it’s been the last two years. Through five City League meets this season the Lady Aces are undefeated and have won the Wichita Heights Invitational and placed twelfth at the Wichita Northwest Invitational. As a perennial GWAL swimming power, Wichita East has seen success on both the boys’ and girls’ side under coach Joe Hutchinson.
“You can tell Hutch is very passionate about swimming and the team,” said junior Haris Vrahliotis. “You can always see him standing at the edge of the pool cheering you on and motivating you.”
The Lady Blue Aces began their season with a new pool the week before spring break and have worked hard to maintain their position from years past in City League standings.
Practices with Hutchinson are filled with sets, different fundamental swimming techniques and individual workouts, something Hutchinson takes pride in.
Right now, the Aces are focused on shaving time off their races. Hutchinson hopes to help his swimmers peak for post city league schedule meets.
“I think Hutch wants to continue on the path his previous teams have been on,” said Vrahliotis. “Undefeated titles are always really nice.”
Personally Vrahliotis hopes to continue improving technique and times.
“I want to get stronger and faster,” said Vrahliotis. “That way I can come back next season and start out strong.”
The Lady Blue Aces have consistently climbed the state ranks after a 29th-place finish in 2009 at the state championship. The team bounced back in 2010 to finish 15th, then 11th at last year’s championships. It hopes to continue that trend at state in May.
The Aces next dual will be at Southeast on Apr. 26 at 4:15 p.m.
