by McKenna Hultgren
Anneliesse Bruns is the Aquatics Director and Head Coach at Concordia College Moorhead. In her fourth year as head coach, she has faced a handful of challenges, including the unprecedented obstacles presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. The cancellation of the majority of their first season due to the pandemic was a major setback, but Bruns has remained dedicated and motivated to grow the program and coach her athletes to be the best they can be.
Last year, the swim team said farewell to five exceptional seniors who had made a significant impact on the program. Jess Bray, Kaitlin Cramer, Camille Gunderson, Lindsey Biebl, and Audrey Zeleny were not only skilled athletes but also carried extreme leadership within the team. Their departure left a big hole in the team that will be felt this season.
However, amidst the departures, there is also great anticipation for the returning athletes. Brienna Timm and Rachel Andersen, both seniors, bring an abundance of experience and dedication to their respective events and relay positions. Their leadership and determination will be valuable to the team’s success. Junior Hailey Jaeger, a sprint freestyle specialist, has shown exceptional skill over the years and is expected to make waves in the pool. Junior Kiernan Darling, a talented diver, has also demonstrated immense skill and is ready to take the diving program to new heights. Additionally, Coach Bruns is excited about the continued growth and potential of the sophomore class. Haley Juetten, Christina Moore, Tinsley Porter, and Madelyn Barlage have already shown glimpses of their talent and are expected to play pivotal roles in the team’s success in the future and beyond.
With a mix of seasoned athletes and promising newcomers, the team is ready for a fiercely competitive season. With coach Bruns’ experience and unwavering dedication, combined with the determination and talent of the athletes, the stage is fully set for a season filled with record-breaking performances, victories in and out of the pool, and a heartwarming sense of camaraderie.
The team is buzzing with excitement as they welcome three promising freshmen: Chea Baugh, Callie Metsala, and Sydney Negri and one walk on senior, Royce Nhantumbo. These athletes not only excel in their respective sports but also demonstrate a strong commitment to their academics. Their arrival brings a sense of hope and possibility as they step in to fill the gaps left by the graduating seniors. With their unique skills and fresh perspectives, they will play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s future.
When it comes to selecting student athletes, Coach Bruns places great emphasis on finding individuals who truly “understand their “why” for participating in the sport. Coach Bruns believes it’s not just about raw talent but about that burning passion that fuels their dedication and pushes them to give their all. Ultimately, Coach Bruns wants athletes who can define their motivation and purpose, as it enhances the entire team dynamic.
Honesty and communication are also key qualities that the program values. Open and transparent communication fosters trust and understanding among teammates, creating a supportive environment where everyone feels heard and valued. This emphasis on building strong relationships extends beyond the pool at Concordia College Moorhead. The swim program at Concordia College Moorhead values a team that comes together to support one another both in and out of competition.
The program’s culture is characterized by a unique blend of hard work and memorable experiences. While the team is dedicated to putting in hours of training and pushing their limits, they also know the importance of creating lasting memories. It is not just about the results, but also about the journey and the bonds formed along the way. Each member of the swim team understands that swimming and diving are not just a sport but a way of life that brings people together.
What truly sets this program apart from other swim programs is the unwavering passion of the coaching staff. They are not just there to fulfill a job description; their love for swimming and diving runs deep in their hearts and veins. The coaches believe that it’s a part of who they are, and they are driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact both in the sport and in the lives of the athletes they coach and mentor. Their dedication and enthusiasm create an infectious and positive energy with the hope that it will influence and inspire each individual to reach their full potential.