The AV boys’ swim and dive team held their home opener against Shakopee on Thursday night at Valley Middle. Outnumbered by their competitors, the young Eagles held their own against the Sabers.

The 2015-2016 swim team might only have 19 athletes, but they are willing to challenge their competitors. Junior Ethan Elumba tied for first in the 50-yard free race, which is extremely rare in the high school swimming world.

The 400 yard free relay finished 2nd with a time of 3:46.30. This relay team included senior Sam Larkin, sophomore Max Larkin, sophomore Spencer France, and sophomore George Knier. Max Larkin also finished 2nd in the 100 yard backstroke race with a time of 1:04.38.

This year’s team is built with a majority of underclassmen. “Our strengths include being able to focus on individual strokes and being able to cheer on our younger guys and make them feel like part of the family,” said senior Tony Lee.

Because they have a smaller number of athletes, they are able to create a bigger bond as a team.

As the year goes on the team is looking forward to improvements. “I am looking forward to sections and watching our guys drop time and build for next year,” said Lee.

The next home meet is at Valley Middle on Friday, January 8th, at 6 pm.