Written by: Yoonus Imran Solih, School Captain / 2025
For us, the competition was also an opportunity to take charge and prove ourselves as leaders. As swim meet officials, we were entrusted with important responsibilities that gave us a new perspective on the hard work and dedication required to run such a large event successfully.
Our duties included timing the swimmers on the track, announcing events and heats, managing the schedule, and making sure the competition ran smoothly throughout the day. From setting up equipment each morning, to solving unexpected problems on the spot, to ensuring that every race was timed and recorded properly, we had our hands full at every stage.
At times, it was challenging, whether it was postponing a race because a participant was missing, or standing for long hours on the track with a stopwatch in hand. Yet, we quickly realized that every role we played mattered greatly. Without organizers, timekeepers, announcers, and coordinators, an event of this scale simply could not succeed. Knowing this kept us motivated and pushed us to give our very best.
By the end of the competition, we had gained so much more than experience. We grew more confident in our abilities, learned to adapt under pressure, and discovered the importance of communication and teamwork. This event showed us that leadership does not always come with a title, it can be found in small but meaningful responsibilities, like keeping time accurately, making announcements clearly, or ensuring things run on schedule.
Most importantly, this experience reminded us how valuable it is when schools place trust in students and give them opportunities to lead. It helps us develop responsibility, problem solving skills, and confidence that will stay with us long after school life.

