Sunny Hills High School Swim and Dive Team Preview

The Sunny Hills High School Swim and Dive team is gearing up for a challenging and exciting season under the leadership of Head Coach Sergio Dorrego. With a new league and tougher competition ahead, the team is focused on rigorous practice and teamwork to remain competitive.  

Returning Stars & New Additions

The Lancers are fortunate to have a strong core of returning swimmers who have contributed significantly in past seasons. Leading the boys' team are Cheney Mo, Rohan Parker, James Sy, and Liam Weinreich, while the girls’ team will be bolstered by Caelyn Feetham, Mia Carley, Eveline Grannis, and Isabella Zia. These swimmers train with various club teams across Orange County, bringing experience and skill to the program. Additionally, newcomers such as Troy Jung, Samuel Yun, Ethan Park, and Samuel Stoops on the boys’ side, as well as Claire Yoo and Abby Reekstin for the girls, are expected to make an immediate impact. Many of these athletes have prior swimming experience and also participate in water polo, strengthening the team’s freestyle and stroke events.  

Team Chemistry & Motivation

Rather than appointing official team captains, Coach Dorrego allows natural leaders to emerge and take charge. The team fosters camaraderie through encouragement and structured lane assignments during practice, ensuring swimmers train alongside peers of similar speed to push each other to improve.  

Challenges & Key Matches

One of the early challenges this season has been dealing with broken lane lines in the pool, forcing swimmers to navigate using visual cues from the pool floor. Additionally, competing in a brand-new league presents fresh challenges, as every opponent will be unfamiliar. However, one meet the team is particularly looking forward to is their non-league matchup against former league rival Troy High School, a perennial powerhouse that will test Sunny Hills from the outset.  

Coaching Philosophy & Training Updates

Coach Dorrego maintains a consistent coaching philosophy, emphasizing mental toughness and confidence in the water. A new addition to the coaching staff, a former collegiate swimmer from APU, may offer fresh insights to elevate the team's performance. The primary focus remains on depth and versatility, with an effort to encourage swimmers to embrace events outside their comfort zones.  

Season Outlook

With approximately 100 athletes on the team, depth is a major strength for Sunny Hills. However, one challenge remains: convincing swimmers to take on events they may be less comfortable with. Through structured practice and encouragement, Coach Dorrego hopes to develop well-rounded swimmers ready to take on the season’s challenges. As the Lancers prepare for a competitive season ahead, the combination of experienced veterans, promising newcomers, and a strong team culture positions them well to make waves in their new league.