The Parkland boys swimming program is hoping the future is now. Coach Robert Robitaille has a talented group of young men, but also some question marks. How quickly he can come up with answers will determine their success during the 2018-2019 season.

“We will look to develop the kids we have and give it a good go at the end of the season,” said Robitaille. “We are much younger than usual.

“The team looks to compete with the rest of the Valley and do what they can to fill the best district championship line-up that we can.”

The coach acknowledge it could take a year or two to see their potential realized. However, Robitaille is certain of one thing this season: his boys squad will work hard.

“We have a ton of kids that haven’t competitively swum for more than two or three years,” he said. “But watching kids work hard in this day and age as a team and a unit is something I think everyone can enjoy. Individualism is running too rampant in the world. It’s nice to see kids working together to achieve what say they can’t.”

Leading the charge to surprise naysayers will be junior James Zhang, who Robitaille said “is a determined young man who will do what is necessary to obtain his goals.”

Another junior, Gavin Webb, is considered to have a bright future for the Trojans.

“He really just started competitive swimming about two years ago,” Robitaille said. “To see his progress and know that there’s so much more to be tapped into is what is really cool.”

Diver Kole Cannon, also a junior, is expected to contribute to the Parkland cause this season.

“Kole is a hard-working individual who will play an important role on the team’s overall success,” Robitaille said.

Sophomore Logan Choma could have a bright future in pools across the Lehigh Valley. The coach noted Choma is “incredibly talented and is able to use his skill set to his advantage.”

Overall, Robitaille said “we have a lot of talent coming, but it will take time to get there.”