Minneapolis Southwest Boys Swimming & Diving: A Spectacular Season of Record-Breaking Success and Team Unity
The 2024–2025 winter season will go down as one of the most impressive in recent memory for the Minneapolis Southwest Lakers Boys Swimming & Diving team. Under the steady leadership of Head Coach Chris Aarseth, the Lakers not only delivered a perfect dual meet record but also broke multiple school and conference records, setting a new standard for success both in and out of the pool.
While the stats tell part of the story, what made this season truly special was the cohesion, character, and commitment that defined every practice, meet, and moment of adversity. According to Coach Aarseth, it was a “total team effort,” with athletes rallying around each other and building momentum together, week after week.
Total Team Effort, Tangible Results
“Our season was spectacular,” Coach Aarseth proudly shared. “The team broke two school records and one conference record while completing a perfect undefeated dual meet record.”
That level of dominance doesn’t happen by accident. It came from collective buy-in, athlete development, and a leadership core that held the team accountable and inspired excellence.
Rather than relying on a single star swimmer, the Lakers spread out their success across the roster. From record-breaking relays to individual improvements that stacked points when it mattered most, every athlete contributed to what became a truly standout year.
A Turning Point in Twin City Triumph
The defining moment of the season came during the Twin City Championship—a meet that Coach Aarseth admits came with more uncertainty than expectation.
“We really didn't know what to expect,” he said. “And we ended up winning by over 20 points. It really set us up for a great start to the championship season.”
That victory wasn’t just a statement—it was a launchpad. With that win, the Lakers gained not just confidence but clarity. They saw just how high they could reach when everything clicked, and from that moment on, the team never looked back.
Leadership That Made Waves
Key to the Lakers' incredible run was the leadership of senior Gus Rudenick, who fully embraced his role as team captain.
“Gus really grew as a leader,” Aarseth noted. “He truly relished the role and made sure everyone felt wanted and welcomed. He also led by example in the pool.”
Rudenick’s contributions were as much emotional as they were physical. His steady presence created an environment where both veterans and newcomers could thrive—a factor that became essential throughout the long season.
Other seniors played critical roles as well. Trygvve Thorson was the team’s go-to swimmer in high-pressure meets, consistently delivering when it counted. Meanwhile, Rocco Nelson, despite a hand injury that sidelined him for the back half of the season, remained a pillar of support, attending every meet, cheering on teammates, and reinforcing the Lakers' strong team culture.
“You can never underestimate the power of seniors,” said Aarseth. “They set the tone.”
Rising Stars and Rapid Improvement
While the seniors held the reins of leadership, several younger swimmers grew into larger roles as the season progressed. Coach Aarseth highlighted three swimmers in particular who made significant strides:
Ethan Holm: Improved steadily each week and ended the season on a high note.
Noah Brennom: Named the “most improved,” Brennom’s development positioned him as a major force heading into his senior year.
Gus Rudenick (again): Not only a leader, but also an example of personal growth and discipline in the pool.
These names represent just a snapshot of the depth and drive that characterized this roster.
Composure Under Pressure
Handling pressure, setbacks, and high-stakes moments is part of every successful team’s journey. For Minneapolis Southwest, resilience was a defining trait.
“We really just took everything in stride and controlled what we could control,” Aarseth said. “The boys didn’t get rattled by much and rose to the occasion each time.”
This poise showed not only in the heat of close races but also in how the team navigated challenges like injuries and midseason adversity. It’s a testament to the team’s maturity and unity—a rare combination that often separates great teams from good ones.
Looking Ahead: A New Class, a New Challenge
With the season in the books, Coach Aarseth is already looking to the future. One of the most intriguing developments is the team’s move from Class AA to Class A—a shift that brings both opportunity and formidable competition.
“We are moving down a class to A from AA,” Aarseth said. “We’ll be in the hardest A section by far with some really tough teams. But I’m positive our guys will continue to improve mentally and physically throughout the upcoming season.”
In many ways, this new classification presents the perfect challenge for a program that’s already proven its competitive edge. With a mix of returning talent, growing depth, and a culture of improvement, the Lakers are positioned to compete, regardless of the class or competition.
Offseason Goals: Grow the Roster, Build the Depth
As dominant as the Lakers were this year, Coach Aarseth knows that to sustain and elevate success, roster size matters.
“You can win a lot of races with a few talented kids,” he explained. “But you won’t win a lot of meets with a small group.”
The focus now turns to recruiting and development. Aarseth hopes that the team’s recent success and positive culture will draw more athletes to the sport, especially those who may not have considered swimming and diving before.
“I’m confident that our success in and out of the pool—and the environment we provide—allows kids to find success in situations where they can grow.”
Final Thoughts: More Than Just Medals
The 2025 season was about more than records and wins. It was about building a program, not just a team. It was about raising standards, forming leaders, and turning individual potential into collective achievement.
Coach Aarseth’s Lakers proved that with the right culture, leadership, and commitment to growth, even the highest expectations can be exceeded.
As the program prepares for a new chapter in Class A competition, there’s one thing clear: Minneapolis Southwest Boys Swimming & Diving isn’t just riding a wave—it’s making one.
To stay updated on stats, upcoming events, and the continued rise of the Lakers, follow the team’s official platforms and watch as the journey continues in 2026.
: Not only a leader, but also an example of personal growth and discipline in the pool.
These names represent just a snapshot of the depth and drive that characterized this roster.
Composure Under Pressure
Handling pressure, setbacks, and high-stakes moments is part of every successful team’s journey. For Minneapolis Southwest, resilience was a defining trait.
“We really just took everything in stride and controlled what we could control,” Aarseth said. “The boys didn’t get rattled by much and rose to the occasion each time.”
This poise showed not only in the heat of close races but also in how the team navigated challenges like injuries and midseason adversity. It’s a testament to the team’s maturity and unity—a rare combination that often separates great teams from good ones.
Looking Ahead: A New Class, a New Challenge
With the season in the books, Coach Aarseth is already looking to the future. One of the most intriguing developments is the team’s move from Class AA to Class A—a shift that brings both opportunity and formidable competition.
“We are moving down a class to A from AA,” Aarseth said. “We’ll be in the hardest A section by far with some really tough teams. But I’m positive our guys will continue to improve mentally and physically throughout the upcoming season.”
In many ways, this new classification presents the perfect challenge for a program that’s already proven its competitive edge. With a mix of returning talent, growing depth, and a culture of improvement, the Lakers are positioned to compete, regardless of the class or competition.
Offseason Goals: Grow the Roster, Build the Depth
As dominant as the Lakers were this year, Coach Aarseth knows that to sustain and elevate success, roster size matters.
“You can win a lot of races with a few talented kids,” he explained. “But you won’t win a lot of meets with a small group.”
The focus now turns to recruiting and development. Aarseth hopes that the team’s recent success and positive culture will draw more athletes to the sport, especially those who may not have considered swimming and diving before.
“I’m confident that our success in and out of the pool—and the environment we provide—allows kids to find success in situations where they can grow.”
Final Thoughts: More Than Just Medals
The 2025 season was about more than records and wins. It was about building a program, not just a team. It was about raising standards, forming leaders, and turning individual potential into collective achievement.
Coach Aarseth’s Lakers proved that with the right culture, leadership, and commitment to growth, even the highest expectations can be exceeded.
As the program prepares for a new chapter in Class A competition, there’s one thing clear: Minneapolis Southwest Boys Swimming & Diving isn’t just riding a wave—it’s making one.
To stay updated on stats, upcoming events, and the continued rise of the Lakers, follow the team’s official platforms and watch as the journey continues in 2026.)
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