Justin Hake

Past Entries

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January 24, 2005

The Eagles are back and better than ever. This year proved to be one of the best training trips in team history, leaving the team with tan skin and a confidence that is sure to pay off come March.

The past couple weeks of training have led the way to the time of year that every swimmer yearns for…taper. This is the time of year when the team begins dividing into training groups with the specific goal of focusing in on each swimmer's end-of-the-season goals.

Many are starting to rest for the UAA conference meet. Others are holding on for another week or so in preparation for the Emory Invitational. The rest of the team (those that have already achieved their national qualifying cuts) are continuing to train at a fairly intense level until it comes time to rest up for nationals in March.

Though the team is dividing up in practice, team unity outside of the pool remains strong. The last home meet we had against Transylvania proved how much our team can accomplish when everyone is focused and having fun. Swimming in our home pool for the last time this season, the team took advantage of the break in training to put up some of the best dual meet times this season.

I have few words to describe it, but the team is so far ahead of where it was last season that I can't help but get excited for some unexpected fireworks in the end of the season meets. One more dual meet to go, but nationals is right on the horizon.

Justin Hake is a junior from Red Wing, Minn. He would love to answer e-mail questions from Emory recruits and fans.