With the exception of the Virginia High School League state competition where such celebrations have not been permitted, swimming and diving teams traditionally celebrate winning indoor district and region championships with a group victory splash by jumping into the host pool.
It’s a neat and fun custom.
Usually there are two such celebrations, one for the girls team and another for the boys.
That was not the case, however, at this season’s 6D North Region meet, where the Yorktown Patriots won both the girls and boys crowns. So the two teams each joined the big splash party at the Oak Marr RECenter pool in Oakton and leaped into the water to celebrate at the same time, swimmers, divers, coaches, and all, as the photo with this blog shows.
Sometimes even school administrators join the fun. James Madison High School principal Greg Hood joined the splash party at the same Oak Marr pool a few seasons ago when the Madison girls won a region crown.
Again, all in good fun and a harmless tradition that teams should be allowed to enjoy.
Wish the VHSL also would allow for such fun.
– Dave Facinoli
dfacinoli@sungazette.net