SACO — The Thornton Academy boys swimming and diving team had one of it’s most successful seasons in 2016-17, winning the Southwesterns for the first time since 1999 and later taking home fourth place at states.

There was perhaps no greater contributor to the Trojans’ success than captain Eli Steward.

Steward, a junior, has been one of the state’s top swimmers over the past two seasons, being named to the Southwestern Maine Activities Association’s first team in each year. Some of his best work came down the stretch this winter, as took home first in the 100 butterfly at states, as well as second in the 500 free and also was part of the 400 relay team that finished first. He also finished first in the 200 free at Southwesterns.

“He’s one of our captains and he definitely demonstrates that every day,” said TA coach Kathy Leahy. “He really has the work ethic in practice, he always takes it a step above where he’s been. Every season he’s doing more and doing more.”

Not only does Steward push himself each day, he also pushes and guides his teammates to be the best they can be in and out of the pool.

“He does a lot of teaching for his teammates. There is a group of the guys that are so into statistics in terms of understanding split times and how fast they have to go in the first half of the race so they can maintain what they want in the second half of the race. He does a lot of that teaching, as well as discussing that with the guys. They’re constantly elevating that level of competition,” said Leahy.

Perhaps his greatest attribute is his flexibility, being able to compete in numerous events at all levels.

“He’s a solid all-around swimmer — his versatility is one of his assets,” said Leahy. “That versatility in an incredible asset. In the season, for coaches to match our lineup it makes that more of a challenge because they never know where he’s going to be. With him doing all of the events they have no idea what event it’s going to be … it’s a strategic advantage and he’s very well aware of it.”

More than anything, Steward’s success is a product of dedication and hard work. Steward trains in and out of the pool year round, keeps to a strict diet, and even teaches the sport to others.

Although competing against Steward causes competitors fits, it is hard to deny the impressiveness of his performance and achievements.

“He trains all year — our season is just a snapshot of his training regimen,” said Leahy. “When we get to Southwesterns and states it’s like his opening for where he’s going. He’s more than happy to do whatever the team needs him to do no matter the event. He’s going to do his best no matter what … he’s fun to watch.”

— Associate Sports Editor Alex Sponseller can be reached at [email protected] or at 282-1535 ext. 323. Follow the Journal Tribune Sports Department on Twitter @JournalTsports.