Marion, Centre approve
joint team for swimming
Staff writer
Marion and Centre school boards have approved the formation of a joint swim team.
Jason Hett, Marion’s athletic director, initiated the idea earlier this winter.
“We have a beautiful facility and don’t have to go elsewhere to practice,” he said, “and some girls were pretty interested.”
At least seven girls have signed up for the team, four from Marion and three from Centre.
Practice will begin Monday. The team will compete in at least four meets during the spring season — two in Newton, one in Hutchinson, and one in Wichita.
Hett said teams from schools in 1A through 5A would compete against each other, so the girls will be competing against swimmers from larger schools. However, it would be a level playing field because a girl’s time will determine if she will qualify for the state meet, he said.
“I think it’s good for our schools to work together,” Hett said. “It will provide another opportunity for students to excel.”
Marion’s Randy Carlson will be the head coach. Centre’s Kim Smith will be his assistant.
“I’m excited for the opportunity this presents for our students,” said Centre superintendent Susan Beeson. “I like individual sports. It gives kids a variety of activities to choose from and an opportunity to do something they like.”