Edina girls swimming and diving team rejuvenuated for upcoming season

Head coach Jeff Mace has over 20 years of experience with the swimming and diving program at Edina High School. Of course, he’s seen nothing close to what this season resembles with the COVID-19 protocol.

"Obviously, safety is at the forefront of our daily routine. My main message to the team is let’s enjoy every day that we have together because tomorrow hasn’t been promised to us," said Mace.

***To see video from a recent practice and to hear from select athletes, CLICK PLAY ABOVE***

The Edina Hornets have a solid tradition of winning state championships — the team has won four straight state titles.

One of the seniors that will lead the team this season is Lily Gremmels, who’s been a part of the team since she was in seventh grade.

"I can’t express enough how grateful I am to even have a season. I felt so sorry for many of my friends who recently graduated and lost out on participating in spring sports. Every time I come into practice I’m so happy to have this time with my friends. If we get a chance to compete for a state title that will be a bonus. Right now I’m just blessed we get a chance to get our season started," said Gremmels.

Teammate Katie McCarthy is also a leader. McCarthy may only be a sophomore, but she sees the big picture and feels that to simply have the opportunity to compete on a daily basis is good enough for her.

"I’ve been very fortunate to have been a part of some great teams over the years here at Edina High School. However, what we’ve gone through the last few months has given me new perspective on how important it is to be with my current team and that’s something I won’t take for granted," said McCarthy.

McCarthy is still a year away from looking closely at colleges for pursuing her swimming career after high school is over. Gremmels will be swimming for Georgetown University in Washington D.C. after her days at Edina are over.