Craig’s boys swim season is in full swing.

The team is making some waves and started with season with two victories. 

On Friday, Dec. 3, they defeated rival Parker by a score of 100-68. The next day they won the Cougar Relays, beating Stoughton, Elkhorn, and Parker. 

Head coach Matthew Palma is impressed with his team so far, especially the numbers.

“We have many new boys and everyone gets along well,” Palma said. “They all have solid swimming skills.” 

“We have 24 swimmers,” he said, adding, “We also have good leaders.”

One of those leaders is Ben Witt, a junior and one of the captains. 

“Ben went to state last year and broke the school record in the 100 butterfly,” said Palma.

Another team leader is David Cummings. “He is the team’s only 4-year swimmer. He also went to state last year,” said Palma.

Their goal is always to improve. 

Palma said, “I just want to see all the swimmers doing their best and working hard.  It is very important to see the boys have time drops.” 

He added, “It is a great feeling to see them achieve their goals and to improve their times at the end of the year. They are a fun group to be around.”

Coach Palma has a passion for swimming and coaching.

“I was a swimmer myself,” he said. “I grew up always being around the water.”

Palma was a competitive swimmer and competes in triathlons and cross country ski races. He was previously the head coach for both the boys and girls teams at Delavan Darien High School. 

He also started a youth swim team in Delavan, which is still running.