By Andy Simmons

Ten days.

An individual can accomplish a plethora of objectives in ten days.

For Coach Shane Tatum and his group of water going athletes, the Troy Tiger Sharks, ten days is how long they have to prepare for the biggest swimming and diving competition of the summer.

The 2012 ARPA State Swimming and Diving Championship will take place July 27-28 in Opelika, Al. The Tiger Sharks have qualified 12 swimmers from their squad.

“They’ve qualified to represent the city of Troy,” Tatum said.

“They’re going to be competing against 1,500 other swimmers from around the state and I’m really excited to see what happens.”

Tatum knows that these kids have a tough test ahead of them, so in order to compensate for the task in the upcoming future, he is willing to place them in an extended practice environment to make sure that they are fully groomed.

“One of the things we are going to change is we’re going to two a days,” Tatum said.

“We’ll have a morning practice and an afternoon practice. These 12 swimmers are going to put in about 20 hours of conditioning to try and get ready for the state.”

One of those swimmers happens to be Graham Hamlin, Tatum’s ace in the hole.

Hamlin is a graceful swimmer that seems to glide through the water with every stroke he takes. He is also the Tiger Sharks top point getter and is eager for a chance to shine at the state level.

“I’m most excited about the 50-yard freestyle because it’s my favorite,” Hamlin said.

“We’ve done a lot of practicing so far this week and it’s made us do better in the district swim meet.”

You could sense the excitement in Hamlin’s voice. Actually, there was a certain buzz throughout the entire recreation pool.

“They’re really excited,” Tatum said.

“Out of the twelve, five of them are brand new swimmers that qualified for the first time so I think they’re going to have a real good time up there.”

Individuals swimming Friday, July 27th

Graham Hamlin- 50 yard freestyle

Jennifer Jordan- 50 yard freestyle

Individuals swimming Saturday, July 27

Graham Hamlin- 50 yard backstroke

Emily Dent- 50 yard backstroke

Ella Tatum- 50 yard freestyle

Graham Hamlin- 100 yard freestyle

Jennifer Jordan- 100 yard freestyle

Medley Relay will be held Friday, July 27

11 and 12 boys Medley Relay- Nathan Taylor, Kendall Savoie, Cole Coppage and Charlie Rawls

Freestyle relay will be held on Saturday, July 2 

9 and 10 boys Freestyle Relay- Alex Cordle, Cody Paramore, Collin Jordan and Graham Hamlin

11-12 boys Freestyle Relay- Bryce Tatum, Nathan Taylor, Charlie Rawls and Kendall Savoie