Sims Sisters, DGN Swimming & Diving Take on State

The  swimming and diving team will start state competition at New Trier High School Friday afternoon and Saturday. 

DGN took second at its sectional meet Nov. 12. 

Much attention has been given to twin sisters Gabby and Maddy Sims, who follow two other very successful Sims swimming siblings. Gabby and Maddy are sophomores making a return trip to state. 

Gabby, Maddy and older sister Haley last year. Haley Sims also won two individual state titles and now swims for Stanford. 

Gabby Sims told Chicago Tribune that although she has the Sims swimming genes, her sister and she work very hard for their success, as well. 

"They are athletes 24 hours a day, and that means they go about their entire day with a goal in mind," DGN Swim Coach Judy Busse told Chicago Tribune. "Gabby and Maddy are bound more by their commonality, but Maddy tends to be more vocal, while Gabby is so explosive in the water."

At sectionals, Senior Meghan Downey took first in the diving competition with 468 points, topping Benet Junior Taylor Kramer, who posted a score of 396.10 points. 

Maddy Sims took second in the 200-yard freestyle and third in the 100-yard butterfly. She is currently seeded fourth in state in the 200-yard freestyle and 12th in state in the 100-yard butterfly.

Gabby Sims, took first in the 100-yard butterly and first in the 100-yard backstroke. Gabby Sims is currently seeded first in state for both events. 

Gabby Sims was selected for a National Club Swimming Association team that was sent to Osaka, Japan. 

Freshman Emily Albrecht took first in the 50-yard freestyle. Freshman Gabriele Serniute took fourth in the 100-yard freestyle and third in the 50-yard freestyle. 

DGN also took first in the 200-yard and 400-yard freestyle relays. The 400-yard relay team set a varsity and pool record and is currently seeded second in state.