Tom Arusoo had been out of coaching swimming for 10 years, but admits it’s a sport you just can’t leave.
‘I like it, I enjoy it,? he said. ‘It’s a heart and soul thing.?
So, last school year, one of Arusoo’s old pupils Lake Orion boys? swim coach Paul Fairman talked him into joining his staff as an assistant coach.
In addition to those duties, Arusoo took over as head coach of the Lake Orion Liquid Lightning USA Swimming Club in September.
The team sent 15 members to the state meet a year ago and was back at it on Jan. 26 as they hosted the Macomb County Swim League meet at the LOHS Natatorium.
‘It’s really a team-oriented meet,? Arusoo said. ‘It’s focused on getting the younger swimmers involved without as much pressure.?
Along the way, however, there were quite a few standouts, according to the coach.
Ashley Corriveau, a 16-year-old from Lapeer, and Devon Nowicki, 10, have both qualified for the zone championships, which Arusoo said is a level above the state meet.
Jacob Lindquist (14) qualified for the state meet, as did the boys 11-12 medley relay team of Brandon Nowicki, Jared Goestenkors, Daniel Olthof and D.J. Seeds, among some other highlights.
The natatorium will host the 11-12 and 10 & under state championship on March 7-9, while those 13 & older will head to Jenison the following weekend.
Arusoo said the team is definitely into their busy time of year, but they’ve adjusted well.
‘It’s a new coaching style entirely,? Arusoo said, noting assistant Colin Dolcetti is also new to the team. ‘It took us a little while to get to know all the swimmers.?
Arusoo, a decorated swimmer from the late 1960s, said he’s been impressed with both the team’s spirit and their performance.
‘I think we’re heading in the right direction,? he said. ‘I see a lot of smiles.?
The team has many team members with siblings either on the team or on the high school team.
‘There is a lot of overlap,? Arusoo noted.
He said the next step is to get some of the older swimmers on the team more dedicated to the sport.
Arusoo added that the team is always on the lookout for new members, at any time of year.
Those interested should start by visiting the team’s website at www.liquidlightning.org.