Swimmers step-up, take your mark, urrrrrrrrr! Monroe’s boy’s swim team takes off in the new season with a new attitude, new ways, and a new coach.

Language arts teacher Douglas Schade has been coaching swimming for 22 years, and he recently switched from coaching Plymouth to Monroe.

He said the swap was also good for his family, since he is a teacher at Monroe High School.

Schade said he has had experience with swimming himself, as he was a four year high school swimmer and was part of a relay team with an all-American time.

Having coached swimming most of his adult life, Schade always finds something new about the sport.

Schade said the boys on the swim team seem to be taking the transition of coaches quite well. The boys have been improving on a daily basis with perfect attendance.

Ian Misiak, one of the senior captains, believes the switch of coaches is good for the team.

“It brings a sense of unity to the team,” said Misiak.

Jenifer Bole, who is the diving coach, has previously worked with Schade nine years, and said the transition was an easy one.

“He has a heart for the sport and a passion to see his athletes reach their potential,” said Bole.

Schade said he plans to work the boy’s swim team to reach its full potential.