Kate Mullin

Grandview sports are a large part of the community’s culture, including football, soccer, and basketball. Ticket sales for all three of these sports are huge, and the stands fill with fans anticipating a good game. Grandview looks to the pitch, field, or court for entertainment, but often overlooks the swimming pool. However, big changes are evolving on Grandview’s swim teams, and they demand attention. 

Grandview swim consists of two teams, Junior Varsity and Varsity. The Varsity coach, James Boone, took over the former Varsity coach, Karen Ammon’s, position this year.

“I felt like I had big shoes to fill but felt secure knowing I had her [Ammon] help if I needed it,” Boone said. 

Although the girls were really upset to hear that coach Ammon would be retiring, they were excitedly-anxious to get to work with a new coach.

“I was sad I only got to work with her for one year, she’s an amazing coach. She has made Grandview girl’s swimming what it is today.” Junior Varsity coach Kelly Mullin said.

While Boone is new to coaching the girl’s team, he has been coaching the boy’s Junior Varsity team for 3 years. This year being his fourth season with them. He’s also been coaching a swim club team called Aspire for three and half years.

“Coaching the teams is generally very similar. We both want to improve on our details, race strategy and endurance,” Boone said. “The difference is mostly from person to person and what they specifically need to focus on to improve.”

Another person essential to Grandview’s girls swim team is the assistant coach, Kelly Mullin, who coached the Grandview girls JV team in 2022-23.

 “I really enjoyed coaching.” Mullin said. “I loved getting to know each and every girl. They are so fun and inspire me every day to be better.” 

As far as the season went, both coaches felt it went really well. New records are set constantly, and swimmers are marking new territory in competitions across the country.

“[We have] a ton of best times from the entire team and an All-American Consideration time for our 200 Medley relay, plus some great dual meet performances and a good showing at Coaches invite,” Boone said.

While the swim team has had multiple wins this season, there are still  things that could be improved.

“Some things [I think]could go better as well, such as close dual meet losses to CT and Arapahoe.” Boone said. “We also have the biggest tests of the season coming up, so a lot is yet to be seen.” 

B-Leagues on the 27th, A-leagues on February 2nd and 3rd, and the state meet on the 8th and 9th. These meets are designated to fit swimmers into a competitive environment with multiple teams competing in each league. 

“I will definitely miss the seniors, [but I’m] thrilled for the championship meets of the season right now,” Boone said.

The season is coming to an end on January 27th. While the swimmers who qualified for A-leagues and state will still be having practice, the rest of the team will be done with practice until next year. 

“It’s exciting to see how much the team has improved but sad to know that it’s almost over.” Kelly Mullin said.