Emma Wakefield is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Dobson High School for AZPreps365.com

Dobson beat Benjamin Franklin, 54-46 in their dual at Rhodes Junior High School on Thursday. The Mustangs won many events against the Chargers, notably the 200 free relay and the 400 free relay.

Dobson worked hard for every yard down to stay ahead of Ben Franklin in the 200. In the final 50 yards, sophomore Hawa Savoy led Dobson from the third lane, neck-and-neck with Ben Franklin’s anchor right next to her. Savoy had a solid finish to get the 200 free relay win for Dobson.

Dobson’s relays were not ones to miss, with the 400 free relay coming in first to finish off the meet strong. Dobson freshman anchor Nicole Ostler kept the heat going until her final touch to bring home the win.

“We planned for good starts in this race to keep it going, and that helped us win the most,” Ostler said. "Having a good start off the block is an essential part of relay racing, and Dobson was able to show just how important they are by nailing all four of their block starts in the 400 free relay."

Dobson has much time to start setting goals for the end of the season, including Savoy getting to the poststason.

“My biggest goal for the season is to get one relay to state,” said Savoy. “Just because we didn’t make it to state last year doesn’t mean we can’t this year. ...

"The closer bond we have as a team, the better we can perform in the future.”

Ever minute move counts in the technicality of swim races.

“Things such as breathing off flip turns are what slow us down,” said Dobson head coach Katie Franklin. “We need to focus on the little things in order to improve throughout the season.” 

Although this was an exciting win for the team, competitions are only going to get harder from here as the team starts traveling to invitationals.

“Invites are most important because that’s where our biggest competitors are,” Franklin said." Thursday night was a great start to the season for Dobson, but the team has to focus on the little things, form a closer bond, and keep a positive attitude if they want to accomplish their goals by the end of the season."

Dobson competes next at their meet against Marcos de Niza and Maricopa at Copper Sky Recreation Complex on Thursday at 4 p.m.