'Twas the Night Before Champs: Hammerhead Style

(By Skye)

'Twas the night before Champs, when all through the town,

Every Hammerhead finally settled things down.

The goggles were packed in the swim bags with care,

With towels and team caps already in there.

The swimmers were nestled all snug in their beds,

While relay exchanges danced through their heads.

Parents checked heat sheets for the tenth time that night,

Then whispered, "Please...let's turn off the light."

The coaches were dreaming of legal relay starts,

Of perfect streamlines and courageous young hearts.

No forgotten goggles, no missing swim caps...

And hopefully everyone waking from naps!

When out at the pool there arose such a cheer,

"IT'S CHAMPS DAY!" everyone shouted cWe are here!"

I threw on my Hammerhead red and my black,

Grabbed my lucky chair and a whole bag of snacks.

The morning sun sparkled on water so blue,

As Hammerheads gathered; the best summer crew.

With smiles and excitement from ear to ear,

The biggest swim meet of the season was here!

Then standing before us with calm, steady grace,

Coach Helen appeared with a smile on her face.

She reminded each swimmer, "You've already won,

Because of your hard work, your courage, and fun!"

Then Coach Lauren came with a whistle held high,

Giving fist bumps and high-fives as swimmers walked by.

"Trust all your training! Swim your own race!

And don't forget...smile on your face!"

Then Coach Lorelei joined with her encouraging grin,

Helping calm butterflies fluttering within.

She laughed with the swimmers and eased every fear,

Making each Hammerhead feel they belonged here.

The timers were ready. The officials stood tall.

The announcer proclaimed, "First call for Event One, y'all!"

The younger kids wondered, "What heat am I in?"

The older ones answered with confident grins.

Parents claimed seats in the hottest of sun,

Pretending those folding chairs somehow were fun.

There were cheers after victories, cheers after tears,

Cheers for best times we'd remember for years.

Because Hammerheads know what Champs is about:

Lifting each other with every loud shout.

So whether you finish in first or in eighth,

Swim with determination, courage, and faith.

Show great sportsmanship in all that you do,

Because someone is always looking at you.

And I heard Coach Helen call out with delight,

"Swim strong, swim fast, race with all of your might!

Cheer loud for your teammates, I am so proud of you all!"

Happy Champs to our Hammerheads! 

Warmly, 

Skye