Pushing each other as never before, the Westmont women’s swim program propelled its members to new heights of achievement in their latest home meet. 

The latest chapter in their journey began with a home intrasquad meet at which the swim team competed against themselves to get official times on the record. The atmosphere was exciting as the team divided themselves into teams of maroon and white. 

Leighton Bell, a double major in music and business, took a bird’s eye view of the swim team while recovering from her knee injury. Bell shared,“Our last meet was incredible because everyone was there to uplift one another,” she said. “Even though we were competing against ourselves, we wanted everyone to do well and posted several best times!”

Olivia Garrison, also known as “Big O,” is a third-year student-athlete and a distance swimmer for the Warriors. She achieved her best time in the 1,000 meter freestyle, even without being tapered. This record excited the team and set the stage for upcoming competitions. 

First-year athlete Willow Pezone also had an impressive performance in the 100 meter freestyle, clocking in at 54.9. Despite this being her first collegiate season, Pezone constantly posts significant times, demonstrating remarkable potential for the Warrior’s upcoming season.  

Third-year Hanna Desoto, who returned to Westmont swimming after taking a break, delivered a strong performance, recording 2:04 in the 200 meter freestyle. 

“Swimming is a really hard sport to take a significant amount of time away from, but Desoto came back and posted a best time,” said Bell. “She killed it, and we are all excited for her.” 

The addition of a new coach, Erik Hansen, has brought a fresh perspective to the swim team. Hansen emphasizes out-of-water training, focusing on what the swimmers’ bodies do beyond the pool. Hansen’s approach has guided the team to focus on mindfulness in and out of the water as they battle to build techniques to swim stronger and faster than ever.