Experienced Lumberjacks swim team is aiming high this season

CEC swimmers (from left) junior Cori Pelletier of Esko, senior captain Aimee Goldschmidt of Cloquet and senior captain Brittney Kemi of Esko practice at Herb Drew Pool at the Cloquet Middle School earlier this week. The Lumbjerjacks will host Two Harbors at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 7, in their home opener. Jamie Lund/Pine Journal

By News Tips

August 25, 2010 at 5:46 PM

CLOQUET - Last year, the Cloquet-Esko-Carlton girls swim team looked young, thin and inexperienced in the pool. This year, they've increased their numbers, welcomed a solid bunch of new, young swimmers, and are ready to compete.

"We have a new team and I'm really excited," said second-year head coach Stacia Grayson. "With a smaller team last year, we were at a little bit of a disadvantage. but the girls swam well."

Grayson mentioned that roughly 10 of their 17 swimmers advanced to sections a year ago in Elk River, Minn., and a majority of the CEC girls are back in the pool

this fall.

"We lost a couple swimmers, but other than that, we have our full team," said Grayson. "They're looking really good."

"We have a lot more people this year," said fourth-year swimmer and Esko senior captain Brittney Kemi. "It's been more positive; practice has been real good so far."

To get in shape, Grayson makes sure the girls run outside in addition to swimming in the pool.

"It gets them going," she said. "Cross training helps them with muscles they can't work in the pool. It's really important."

This year's top swimmers include Kemi and fellow senior captain Aimee Goldschmidt of Cloquet, as well as juniors Whitney Wysocki and Kayla Whipple - all have been impressive thus far.

"I think they're getting better," said Grayson. "We're more familiar with things and are working them harder."

"She's pushing us a lot," Kemi added, who might pursue swimming in college. "And I think it's getting us ready."

CEC jumps into action at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 7, when they host their season-opening, 11-event meet at home against Two Harbors at Herb Drew Pool at the Cloquet Middle School.

And with a year under their belts, you can bet the Lumberjacks will be turning some heads with their 2010 squad.

"I think the girls are excited to get going," said Grayson, who is assisted by Kayla Cresap. "Two Harbors has been pretty competitive in the past and I think knowing a little bit more this year, we can have a good race."

"We usually have good turnouts," added Kemi. "We're excited!"