"Del Rio Diamondbacks" swim team learn to be the best

  • Published
  • By Airman Sara Csurilla
  • 47th Flying Training Wing
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- --  Three times a week a group of almost 30 children ranging in age from 5-6 years get together to form the "Del Rio Diamondbacks", a youth swim team from Del Rio and surrounding areas.

According to Lt. Col. Garrett Thompson, Del Rio Diamondbacks head coach,
practice is necessary for them to be prepared for upcoming swim meets about once a month.

The Diamondbacks' practice consists of the team performing different swim strokes, such as the breaststroke and the sidestroke.

Along with practice, the team recently had a visit from Dave Thomas, Olympic swimming trainer, who taught them the importance of nutrition and exercise.

"This team makes me feel like I'm a part of something," said Braxton Evans, 14, son of Maj. Scott Evans, 96th Flying Training Squadron. "We're not just swimming; we're swimming for something that counts."

The team began swimming together in November 2006, but were not recognized as a team until July 2007.

"I've seen incredible improvements with these kids, not only with their physical abilities but their self confidence as well," said Lieutenant Colonel Thompson.

Also, once a team member completes their record time, it's recorded on http://www.usaswimming.org, where they can look up their very own swim times right along with Olympic gold-medalists.

Their new season starts in September. For more info in the team, visit www.delriodiamondbacks.com.