Record Breakers

By Alice Roche Cody

Things could not have gone better this week for Mike Schaefer as head swim coach, with girls from his squad breaking two school records in the season opener against Somerville. Margaux Scott '24 swam the 100 Breaststroke with a time of 1:12.12, beating the old one by 7.07 seconds. And for the girls 200 Medley Relay, Margaux, Maddie Soultanian '22, Tahlia Kofman '24, and Scooter Hulsen '22 raced a 2:02.53, breaking the 2018 GSB record by 5.42 seconds.

"My first week coaching at Gill was excellent – I couldn't be happier," said Coach Schaefer. "I'm proud of our girls for getting that win."

From the start, Coach Schaefer recognized Margaux's tremendous ability at breaststroke and her dedication to both GSB and her club team. "She's dedicated and driven to reach her goals," he said. "If she's breaking school records in her first meet as a freshman, I'm excited to see how far she goes."

And the four medley swimmers had their sights on this mission since virtual workouts started in January. "I knew this goal was on their radar, but I didn't realize how fast they'd get it," said Coach Schaefer. "They work hard everyday and are driven to be successful. Who knows what the record will look after the next four meets."

Overall, Coach Schaefer is beyond pleased with the season's start. Even with all the pandemic protocols, his swimmers remained focused. "These girls are mentally tough, and they are ready for any obstacles COVID-19 or any competitor presents," he said. "If our first meet is any example, the sky is the limit for the rest of the season."

The Knights' next match-up is against Voorhees on Wednesday, March 3.

Ready, set, go, Gill!