The pool area at the University of Lethbridge felt lively as people continued to arrive for the event. Swimmers, parents, and spectators filled the space, creating a busy but exciting atmosphere. Some athletes were already in the water, while others prepared on the deck. Water splashed constantly as swimmers practiced, and the sound echoed throughout the facility. The environment felt energetic, with different groups moving around and getting ready. Parents could be seen watching and supporting from the side, adding to the sense of community. Despite the excitement, the pool area felt warm and humid because of the water and constant activity, making the environment intense for both athletes and spectators.
The swimmers on the University of Lethbridge swim team conducted their warmups to stretch and prepare psychologically for their competition.
“Before a race, I’m definitely a little nervous, but also really excited to get into the water,” said Balázs Moldován.
The event brought energy not only from the competition, but also from the environment itself. “It’s exciting to have an event like this at the Max Bell pool. It’ll be interesting to see how everything plays out.”
The team included several swimmers from both the men’s and women’s sides, with around 10 athletes competing at the event. Throughout the event, swimmers take part in multiple competitions to improve their performance and prepare for bigger meets like nationals.
“Every competition is important because it’s another opportunity to get faster and better,” said Balázs Moldován.
Preparation has been key to the team’s performance.
“We train about eight times a week in the pool and many of us also do weight training on top of that,” one of the swimmers Amélie Gouttin explained. “It’s a lot of work, but it prepares us to perform at our best.”
Pronghorns swim coach Peter Schori reflected on the team’s expectations and confidence going into the meet.
“Our expectations going into the meet were quite optimistic. The team had a great year leading up to this point,” he said. “We have a really strong women team with six swimmers and four men competing.”
As the swimmers prepared, focus shifted to the small details.
“At this stage, we’re focused on the small thing making sure the athletes are well-rested and recovered,” the coach added.
“Mental preparation is just as important as physical training,” he explained.
Athletes rely on mindset to stay calm under pressure.
“I try to visualize and tell myself that I’ve got this and having a positive inner voice really helps under pressure,” Balázs Moldovan said.
Success is measured in personal performance as much as results.
“My main goal is just to perform my best, improve my times, and represent the team well,” said Gouttin. “Every competition is important because it’s another opportunity to get faster and better.”
Family support also plays a big role in the journey of a swimmer.
“My parents have been a huge part of my journey. They’ve supported me from the beginning,” Moldovan explained.
Even under pressure, enjoying the sport remains essential.
“A successful day is just having fun when you’re enjoying it, you usually perform better,” said Gouttin.
Mistakes are a common part of competition, but resilience is key.
“If something goes wrong, you can’t change it. You just stay positive and focus on the next race,” coach said. “If you mess up, it’s not the end of the world. You just get back up and keep going.”
The coach emphasized teamwork even in what is often considered an individual sport.
“Preparation is completely team-based and teammates push each other every day,” he said.
For these athletes, swimming is about continuous growth.
“I love showing up every day, putting in the effort, and trying to improve,” Gouttin says.
She also reflected on the long-term benefits of swimming:
“Swimming gives you the opportunity to improve not just physically, but mentally too. It creates a good balance in life.”
Preparation, focus, teamwork, and personal growth all came together during the event, highlighting the dedication of the University of Lethbridge swimming team.
“Every day is a chance to be better than yesterday,” said Moldován. “It’s not just about the competition. It’s about putting in the effort and enjoying the process.”
Since 2001, Schori has been the head coach of the Alberta Marlin Aquatic Club in Medicine Hat, where he coached former Pronghorn swimmer and Canadian Olympian Richard Hortness. In his time with the Marlin Aquatic Club, he was named the Swim Alberta age group coach of the year in 2010 and junior female coach of the year in 2011. Prior to moving to Medicine Hat, Schori was the head age group coach with the Cascade Swim Club in Calgary and now Schori has been coaching swimming since 2012 according to the University of Lethbridge Pronghorns website.
Balázs Moldován takes a starting stance on block number 1, eyes on the water, during a training session at the indoor aquatic centre.
Balázs Moldován displays strong form with his coach Peter Schori looking on.
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