Captain's Corner: Swimming

With only six athletes, the varsity swim team is definitely the smallest team on campus, but that doesn’t mean they don’t work as hard. If anything, these Avonians go above and beyond what most teams experience. With early morning practices and facilities located off campus, these boys are the epitome of dedication and drive. Now, as we approach the end of the season, we sat down with senior captain Robert Riccobon ’25 to see how that hard work has paid off. 

How many years have you been swimming at Avon?

“I’ve been swimming since I was 6—basically my whole life. I’ve been on the varsity team at Avon all four years. My events are the 200 free, 500 free, and 100 fly. I do most of the medleys and relays, too.”

Why do you think you were appointed captain?

“I think just the growth I’ve shown as a leader. I was a captain my sophomore year, but then I wasn’t picked to be one last year. That was a moment of self-reflection for me. I took it upon myself to develop my leadership skills and grow as a person as well.”

What does the role of swim captain entail?

“Make sure the other kids are on time to everything and all our equipment is there. One of the main things is to be there to support the team. That means cheering them on but also being the first to go up to them if they have a bad race.”

What do you think makes a good leader?

“Responsibility is definitely big. Leading by example is another one. Also, I always try to be respectful and make sure everyone feels like they’re being heard. One thing I always say is that you don’t need a label to be a leader. Whether you’re a captain or not, you can be a leader on the team, and that goes for life outside of the pool, too.” 

How has the season gone so far?

“We’re a small but strong team. Since the other teams just outnumber us for team scores, we are more focused on individual performances. We did just win against Canterbury, though, which was definitely a highlight of the season, but I’m sure there will be more highlights when the championship part of the season starts. As a small team, we’ve gotten pretty close. It’s like a family, really, and we always have a good time.”

What are your goals for the rest of the season?

“Personally, I am looking to get top 3 in Founders League in my events, and to hopefully even win one. At New Englands my goal is to win all my races. Also, I’m hoping to set another school record. I already have the record for the 500 free which I got at New Englands last year, but I’m hoping to set new records in my other two events. Obviously, I’m rooting for my teammates to have similar success.”

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