1. Another Lake three-peat?
Wayzata halted Lake Conference rival Edina's three-year reign as the Class 2A state champion two years ago. Now, Trojans coach Elizabeth Hansen's squad finds itself trying to duplicate the feat. "We have a strong group of girls returning who have experience, commitment, drive and leadership," Hansen said. "I would imagine they would like to three-peat as Lake Conference, Section 5, True Team and Class 2A state champions." Wayzata returns all four members of its 200-yard medley relay state championship team. They are seniors Colleen Donlin and Madison Preiss and juniors Carly Quast and Alexis Schaaf. Hansen will be counting on the quartet for leadership. Preiss is also the defending state champion in the 200 individual medley.
2. Not returning for prep season
If you want to keep an eye on one of the state's best young swimmers, it won't be at the high school level. Regan Smith, who competed at Lakeville North as a seventh-grader last season, has decided to swim with her new club team (Riptide). Smith was the runner-up in the state meet to Zoe Avestruz of Chanhassen in both the 100 backstroke and 100 butterfly. Avestruz is now swimming for the Gophers. Smith made a couple of U.S. Olympic trial cuts this summer and is training with her eyes focused on that level. "We certainly will miss her," Lakeville North coach Dan Schneider said. "I wish her all the best."
3. Visitation in its own class
The Blazers, like Wayzata, will be seeking their third consecutive championship in Class 1A. They won their first two titles by more than 130 points each. Senior Abbie Dolan is the defending state champion in the 100 freestyle and also anchored the 200 and 400 freestyle relay championship teams.
RON HAGGSTROM
