WOODBURY — For about 10 years, the Nonnewaug swim team has had late off-site practices at other high schools, including Kennedy and Shepaug. 

The swimmers keep a positive attitude about the circumstance, even if it isn’t ideal.

“We practice whenever we can,” said freshman swimmer Maddox Poythress.

Senior captain Kyle Viveros seconded his younger teammate.

“It’s obviously inconvenient, but I do what I have to do to practice,” Viveros said.

Poythress says there’s actually a silver lining of practicing at night. On a typical day, he can hit the fitness center and finish homework prior to practice.

“I kinda enjoy it being not directly after school because when you’re doing stuff, it’s normally right after school,” Poythress said. 

Swim coach Abby Walsh acknowledges the challenges but sees other benefits in later practices.

“Late practices are tough while completing schoolwork and going to bed at a reasonable time,” Walsh said. “However, it does give an advantage for late away meets because your body is used to exerting that much energy late at night. The best trick is to take a quick nap after school and get homework done before practice.”

Walsh said the Chiefs don’t usually get to choose their practice time since they’re being allowed to use other schools’ facilities.

“I think the athletes would prefer an after-school practice, but it’s hard while sharing a pool,” Walsh said. “Late practices are tough when deciding when to eat dinner, do homework, and get studying done.”

Though there are benefits and drawbacks, Viveros says the team relies upon each other to get the most out of practice.

“I don’t think anyone likes the late practices,” Viveros said, “but we go and work hard and have a good time as a team.”