Roster numbers down for South swimming

Williamsville South finished 4-6 last year but with eight swimmers returning, it could be an uphill battle this season for the Billies.

“With team numbers so low, winning meets will be extremely difficult but hopefully we will run into a few teams with the same amount of numbers,” said South coach Richard Grampp. “Other than that, the goal of this team will be to improve our best times every time we enter the water. Even if we don’t win a swim meet the season, it can still be a success as long as personal goals are all met and that is what we will concentrate on during the year.”

Senior Drew Rogers, who qualified for the New York State Championships in the 100 and 200-yard freestyle, returns to lead the squad.

“He’s setting his sights on breaking a few school records and repeating and improving his standing at the state meet,” said Grampp.

Senior Aaron Bitner will also be counted on to help out more this year in the freestyle events and the 100 fly, Grampp said. South’s other senior, Louis Cascino, brings a lot of leadership and enthusiasm to the team, said Grampp.

“He will also be looked to help in the sprint free and the 100 breaststroke,” said Grampp.

Sophomore Greg Frank is a complete swimmer who will be used in every event this year, said Grampp.

Rob Gardner returns from last year’s team and will be needed to step up quite a bit in the sprints and 100 back, Grampp said.

Freshmen Nick Herr, Ryan Rodems, and Benjamin Sternberg will be asked to improve at a tremendous rate to help a South team with few numbers, said Grampp.
                South 2006-07 Schedule
12-15 at Lackawanna ............................. 4:30 p.m.
12-18 Maryvale ........................................ 4:30 p.m.
1-3 at Starpoint ....................................... 4:30 p.m.
1-5 at Eden .............................................. 4:30 p.m.
1-9 Tonawanda........................................ 4:30 p.m.
1-12 at Cheektowaga ............................. 4:30 p.m.
1-16 at Amherst (Sweet Home) ............... 5 p.m.
1-19 East Aurora.................................... 4:30 p.m.
1-26 at Depew ........................................ 4:30 p.m.
1-30 Alden............................................... 4:30 p.m.
2-2 at Springville.................................... 4:30 p.m.
2-17   ECICs   at   Clarence   -   warm-ups   -   large
schools 9 a.m., small schools 1 p.m.
2-22 Section VI Championships at Sweet Home,
swimming warm-ups..................................... TBA
2-23 Section VI Championships at Sweet Home,
diving warm-ups ............................................ TBA
2-24 Section VI Championships at Sweet Home,
diving and swimming finals......................... TBA