Bonackers Back In The Pool

Seven seniors will be leading a larger East Hampton swim team roster this season.

Of those seven, Olivia Brabant, Julia Brierley, Darcy McFarland, and Sophia Swanson have been named captains. Other seniors include Reghan Anderson, Eva Doyle, and Tiana Treadwell. Brierley and Swanson, along with freshman returner Jane Brierley, were part of the 200-yard medley and 200 freestyle quartets that obliterated the Suffolk County records in both events at the championship meet, and went on to place 13th and 24th in the state, respectively.

“They will all help to instill to the rest of the team the positive character values that our team culture embodies,” said head coach Craig Brierley, Julia’s father. “Our first two weeks of preseason went well, as the girls continue to adjust to the routine, connect with their teammates, and reconnect with the water.”

The Bonackers boasted a 6-2 overall record, and were 5-0 in League III last season, but Brierley, along with assistant coach Anita LaGrassa, have no problem getting back to basics with their swimmers. During practice, the girls have been focused building the breaststroke and butterfly, the turn for those strokes, and time trials for 100 breaststroke and fly.

East Hampton held its annual Maroon v Gray meet at the YMCA East Hampton RECenter September 7, where Gray edged Maroon 55-47.

“It is always nice to see our team supporting each other and growing together in a positive competitive environment,” Brierley said. “Afterwards, the breakfast organized by the parents was fantastic. It is a nice way for parents and athletes to mingle and get to know each other.”

Following tradition, the team captains named their swimmers of the meet. Gray team captains Julia Brierley and Darcy McFarland recognized Pierson junior Catalina Badilla, and Maroon captains Olivia Brabant and Sophia Swanson chose East Hampton freshman Maddie Elflein.

“The captains appreciated the sacrifice each girl made to compete in multiple events and how they stepped up help out their respective teams,” Brierley said.

East Hampton travels to Ward Melville September 12 and hosts Northport/Commack September 17 in nonleague matchups that both begin at 5 PM.

The Bonackers welcome West Islip to their pool for their league opener September 27 at 5 PM.

desiree@indyeastend.com