We, as a society have come to value athletes above politicians, historical figures and even almighty Zeus himself. We look up to them whether it be for prowess in the pool or fancy footwork on the field. Their passion and drive inspire us, and for that, we love them. The many seemingly mediocre Garfield sports give us little to support, however, there are a select few that give us reason to believe.

Four of the seven fall sports sent competitors to the state finals and we must honor those that were able to attain this glory for Garfield — particularly the girls swim team and one individual from the boys golf team. These athletes have dedicated themselves to their sport and undoubtedly have lost many friends for the elusive splendor of competing in the state competition. I implore everyone to take a few moments out of your dull, meaningless lives to pay some homage to these heroes that walk the halls alongside us mere mortals.

Girls Swimming

The Girls 4A Kingco State Swim Meet at the King County Aquatics Center brought swim enthusiasts and creepy older guys alike to partake in the excitement. The Garfield girls that qualified were as follows: Fiona Majeau, Maddy Morgan, Louisa Dunwiddie, Jordan Hanna, and Kaitlin Chambers. Chambers, a freshman, placed fourth in the diving competition, an accomplishment that surpassed expectations. Her achievement gives hope to championship dives in subsequent seasons. Majeau, a junior, placed second in both the 200 free and the 500 free. The girls 200 medley relay team, consisting on Majeau, Hanna, Dunwiddie, and Morgan, placed first in the competition, aiding the girls to an overall standing of second at state. As Majeau puts it,

“It was really a battle for second for us, because the Skyline team this year was dominant and few teams had any chance of beating them.”

Thus, the girls truly won second and by no means lost first. The state meet was not all business, however.

“The meet is really fun and exciting and everyone has a good attitude,” said junior Louisa Dunwiddie. It is reassuring to know that these girls keep a positive mindset even when performing under extreme pressure. Though the races are competitive in nature, Dunwiddie says that, “all the girls congratulate and root each other on, regardless of team.” This camaraderie is seldom found in other sports and creates a unique atmosphere that is unparalleled in sportsmanship. The girls swim team is losing two of their top competitors next year, but we can all expect them to return to the King County Aquatics Center with a drive for victory.

Boys Golf

The boys golf team are rarely brought up in conversation and victories are even more rare. This year was different. Though the team may have had an unflattering season, one individual has been able to secure his spot in the state tournament.

Enter Cody Moore, senior, heart throb, and golf aficionado. Moore was able to advance to the district meet on October 13th and 14th. However, he will have to wait for many months in anticipation for the state meet, a feat which no Garfield golfer has been able to execute in at least six years. The road to state is a difficult one, as only twelve athletes continue from each district.

“Kingco is the most competitive district, with the top scores almost always coming from here,” Moore states, making his accomplishment even more impressive. He has already received offers to play at University of San Francisco and Boise State, although he has not yet decided if he wants to play golf in college. As the state tournament grows nearer, Garfield can only wish Moore good luck.