Liberty’s swim team will face its toughest competition in its first two meets of the new season, taking on Parkland and Emmaus, both this week.

“It would be nice to have them later in the season because we don’t have year round swimmers except for a handful,” said Liberty coach Reik Foust. “Most are coming off a fall sport or just coming out for the team, so we don’t have much time to get ourselves together.

“They’re a good bunch and super fun to work with, but 10 days is 10 days. To swim their fastest at the beginning of the season is hard, but somebody’s got to do it.”

Returners for the Hurricanes include senior captains Danny Lader, John Jones, Andrew Layne, and Trevor Lenig, along with sophomores Patrick Gilhool and Addison Collins for the boys’ team.

Girls’ team senior captains are Treasa Burke, Abby Mack, Samantha Taylor, and Teegan Kunkle, along with returners Madison Drager and Talia Lehr.

Liberty’s roster totals 65 at this time, including divers.

“It affords us the flexibility in lineups so the kids don’t have to keep swimming the same events,” Foust said.

The Hurricanes also have several freshmen swimmers, including butterflier Brooke Sargent, and those who are new to swimming altogether.

“They’re not adverse to working hard and if they want to put the time in, they can make some things happen,” said Foust.

Also new are some updates to Liberty’s natatorium with brighter lighting, new lane lines, and a water fountain.

Assisting Foust are Evan Kocon and Jeff Matyus.