The Surge

From beginning swimming classes eight years ago to now being a part of the Bays’ varsity team, sophomore Joanna Valdiviezo strives along her teammates, pursuing her passion for swimming. Valdiviezo joined the team during her first year at the Bay and has continued being a part of it for a year. Valdiviezo said that the people around her motivated her to start swimming, and were also the key to staying motivated and inspired while swimming throughout the years. Valdiviezo said that when she started freshman year, one of her goals was participating in the Bay with something she could put her heart in.

“I first got into swimming because I wanted to follow the footsteps of my older brother. What has made me want to continue were the friends and teammates I made along the way; they made swimming more enjoyable and gave me a reason to keep coming back, ” Valdiviezo said. “I was inspired to join the swim and dive team because I wanted to meet new people and be able to represent the Bay, while continuing a sport that I really enjoy.”

Valdiviezo said that  the team has faced changes from when she first began, but they always manage to feel close. Last year, the team attended the Broward County Athletic Association (BCAA) championship, which is the second-largest high school athletic conference in Florida. Valdiviezo said that this experience was memorable for her and that it has motivated her even more to continue.

“Since I first joined the team my freshman year, I’ve seen the team change as new freshmen join and seniors graduate. Even though the people change, the team has continued to feel like a close group that supports each other,” Valdiviezo said. “Cypress Bay won the BCAA meet last year, and I remember how everyone applauded and cheered together to celebrate what we accomplished. It was a great feeling to see all of our hard work pay off and celebrate as a team.”