Dylan Baumgartner, a senior at South Windsor High School, currently serves as one of three captains for the Boys’ Varsity Swim Team. This accolade, although certainly influenced by his commitment to the team, started with his humble beginnings as a young swimmer.

“I started when I was in elementary school on the South Windsor Seals team, and my dad swam in high school and college so I decided to start too,” Baumgartner stated.

Baumgartner took advantage of the Seals program at Veterans Memorial Pool, and began his swimming tenure as many up-and-coming swimmers do. However, unlike many who have followed the same path as him, he remained faithful to the sport and pursued it throughout his high school career, a decision that he does not regret.

“I think the time on the swim team has been great because of all the time you get to spend with your teammates and have fun,” Baumgartner told The Prowl.

While also enjoying himself on the team, Baumgartner has worked hard to improve both himself and his teammates. His dedication did not go unrecognized, as he was awarded the role of senior captain, where he continues to be a role model for both the younger swimmers and the team as a whole. 

Freshman Varsity swimmer Pranav Paulraj, as well as the other underclassmen on the team, have felt Baumgartner’s impact as he not only helps to refine their skills as a swimmer, but he also helps to maintain a positive atmosphere within the team.

“He has had a positive impact because he keeps team morale high, even when we lose a meet,” Paulraj commented.

Baumgartner has made waves both in and out of the pool, though his tenure as captain is nearing its close. The swimming team saw their regular season come to an end Tuesday, February 25th, finishing the season with a 7-2 record. They now look onto CCCs on March 6th, where they hope to perform well at the conference level.