To the Editor:
Usually I write you about national and local politics, but for this letter I need to switch subjects slightly.
For the past two winters it has been my honor to go to the meets of an entity called informally the Lincasset Swim Team. This entity is composed primarily of the high school swim teams of Lincoln Academy and Wiscasset High School. Each contingent is its own school’s team, yet the teams practice together and travel together to far-flung meets against other teams, all under the aegis of a single coach, Don Stroud of Boothbay.
This cooperative arrangement enables the schools to “pool” resources (as it were), but the cooperation does not stop there. Although there is partisanship and individual school spirit, the members of the various school teams cheer each other on and support each other during both practices and meets. Win or lose, the young people of Lincasset are usually the first to offer a handshake of congratulation to opponents.
There is always a cheer from the spectators when the fastest swimmers finish, but from Lincasset followers, there is a cheer for all finishers, and even the slowest swimmer gets heartfelt, appreciative applause and encouragement. Lest you think this latter applause is patronizing, it is not, for while activities like walking and running are something most people take for granted, the knowledgeable Lincasset followers understand that swimming a distance successfully, even if slowly, is not a given for many an able-bodied person.
The Lincasset Swim Team is an instance of competition and cooperation enjoying a healthy, measured mix for the greater good.
This week the Lincasset swimmers participate in the Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference meet. They deserve your support.
Eivind A. Boe, Nobleboro
