'Twas the Night Before Champs: Hammerhead Style

(By Skye)

‘Twas the night before Champs, and all through the pool,

Not a Hammerhead stirred, it was quiet and cool.

The goggles were hung with the swim caps with care,

In hopes that sweet victory soon would be there.

The swimmers were nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of medals danced in their heads.

With pep talks from coaches and nerves feeling tight,

They settled in deep for a fast-champs kind of night.

When out on the deck there arose such a cheer,

I sprang from my bed. Champs Day was near!

To the window I flew in my red and black gear,

Pulled open the curtains and gave a loud cheer.

The sun on the water gave a morning glow,

Red caps and black suits all set to go.

When what to my wondering eyes did appear,

But a sea of Hammerheads ready to cheer!

With a bold, fearless leader so focused and swell,

I knew in a moment, it was Coach Helen as well!

More rapid than sharks her swimmers they came,

And she whistled and shouted and called them by name:

“Now Avery! Now Brenley! Now Greta and Kensy!

Go Alex! Go Ben! Go Ryan and Evan!

To the end of the pool! To the top of the wall!

Now swim strong! Swim fast! Give it your all!”

Like a school of fish charging straight for the prize,

Each swimmer dove in with fire in their eyes.

And just as I turned, full of delight,

Coach Lauren stepped up, beaming so bright.

Dressed all in red, with black on her sleeve,

She brought the kind of confidence you wouldn’t believe.

With a bag full of gear flung over her back,

She looked like a coach fully ready to attack.

Her eyes, how they sparkled! Her whistle, so loud!

She rallied the Hammerheads, made the whole team proud.

With words of encouragement, calm and sincere,

She reminded each swimmer they had nothing to fear.

And then came Coach Ashley, cool and composed,

Focused and ready as each heat rose.

She paced by the lanes, her stopwatches near,

Offering quiet support and a fist-bump of cheer.

She spoke not a word but gave her all to the crew,

Lined up the swimmers, each one she knew.

With a glance and a nod, she gave the go sign,

And they launched off the blocks, one perfect line.

She blew her whistle with a smile so wide,

Then turned to the team and beamed with pride:

“Let’s race with heart, let’s race with might. 

Happy Champs to all, and to all a fast night!”

LET'S GO HAMMERHEADS!