Coach Becky Osborne does not shy away from emphasizing she does not coach to lose. But regardless of meet outcomes, this girls’ swimming and diving season has the potential to be a successful one, according to Osborne.

“We’re just happy to be swimming against people again,” the coach said.

Last fall, due to coronavirus restrictions, swim teams competed virtually and had to rely only on teammates to push each other in meets. This go around, the plan is for traditional meets with both teams at the same site, which should raise the level of intensity on the pool deck as well as in the water.

Newtown’s captains are freestyle sprinter Norah Kolb and breaststroke competitor Catie Fischer.

Brianna Deierlein and Shayna Millard (both backstroke and freestyle) are among the key returnees. Divers include Julia Calabrese and Ella Hall.

“We’ve got some good young talent and we’ve got some strong veterans,” said Osborne, noting that the lineup has 15 seniors and a large group of up-and-coming underclassmen. “We’re eager to see what these girls can do.”

Newtown has finished runner-up to six-time South-West Conference champion Weston twice in the past three seasons, including last fall.

Traditionally, Weston, Pomperaug of Southbury, Brookfield, and Newtown are among the top in the SWC. Osborne is hopeful for another strong season but is also looking forward to a return to more of a family feel within the team. Last year’s restrictions had the team split into two cohorts for practices. The plan is for a more traditional campaign this year.

“I want to see the girls work hard — not only focusing on times in the pool but the camaraderie, the family aspect of the team. Not just dropping times,” Osborne said.

The Hawks begin the season with a visit to Brookfield on Friday, September 10, starting at 3:25 pm. NHS hosts New Fairfield Tuesday, September 14, at 4 pm.