Kankakee Valley High School’s girls swimming and diving program is entering the 2025–26 season with a renewed sense of confidence and chemistry under the leadership of first-year head coach Kim Summers.
According to Summers, who has five years of experience coaching diving, her focus is on “building a strong team culture between the swimmers, divers, and the boys’ and girls’ programs.” She praised the team’s determination and work ethic, noting that this year’s group has the potential to make significant progress across all events.
The Kougars are returning with a roster of 24 athletes after finishing second in their conference and fifth at sectionals last winter. They aim to enhance both their depth and team culture throughout the season.
Veteran athletes Madison Glusak, Addy Aruet, Greta Alicea, Danica Samuelson, and Maya Gonzalez are leading a deep roster. Glusak expressed her readiness to overcome a “mental block” from last year. Aruet credited Summers for helping her improve quickly in her second season of diving. Samuelson, who was last season’s top scorer, hopes to “break a minute in the 100 freestyle” while maintaining a positive mindset in her senior year. Both Gonzalez and Alicea highlighted the team’s family atmosphere and how competing alongside close friends serves as motivation.
The next event for Kankakee Valley is a dual meet at Twin Lakes High School on Tuesday, November 11.
