Almost all members of Scottsdale Prep’s girls team were state runnerups last year, except for one who was still in middle school. Maddie Daly, the only freshman, adds to Spartans powerful dynamic as they looks to win state.

Never the odd one out when the team gathers during breaks at meets, you couldn’t tell she’s the only freshman.

Daly said it’s an adjustment swimming with older girls but everyone is supportive. Her teammates taught her cheers and showed her around when she first came aboard.

Senior Abbey Blonstein, Daly’s relay teammate, said the team does “a really great job of making it welcoming.”

She also said Daly is adapting well because everyone has leadership positions to an extent.

“I don’t think of us as grade levels, I just think of us as a team,” said Blonstein.

Her technique, according to Blonstein, surprised her the first time she saw Daly swim for the butterfly part of their 200 medley relay.

“I remember being like, ‘Whoa! She’s a freshman?’ She was really good at butterflys, and I could not butterfly for the life of me. I was really impressed.”

Past teams struggled with Daly’s event, which makes her an asset.

The small school environment strengthens the bond with each other. Seeing teammates at school helps them to loosen up at practice and become even closer.

Captain Gracie Carefoot said returners show Daly how the program should look for her next few years on the team.

Daly is relaxed with her role because she feels more pressure with her club team. She uses this season to improve her technique.

Daly wants to compete individually at state championships, as well as go with her team. With the well-rounded swimmers on this team, they all can make that happen.

 

The dominant team went 5-0 in its nonconference meets. Their next meet is September 20 against American Leadership Academy and Florence High School.