The Bonney Lake boys swim team lost to Peninsula 130-53 in its first meet of the season on Thursday, Dec. 5.

The Panthers were short on eligible players, coach Jay Paulson said. Because of the early release for the bomb threat and Thanksgiving break, he said, it affected the practice requirement for competing in a meet for some of the swimmers.

“However, the ten guys that did compete did a great job,” he said. “Although not enough to compete against a strong Peninsula team.”

With a number of swimmers ineligible, the Panthers had to throw some new guys into the pool.

“They all survived although they might not have felt like it during the race,” he said.

One swimmer that may not have felt that way during his race was Taylor MacDonald.

MacDonald showed a lot of heart as he battled his way through finishing the 200 individual medley, Paulson said.

“Although our start was rough in the first meet, I see lots of promise in our team,” Paulson said. “I’m excited to be able to compete as a whole team, see the experienced swimmers get closer to their goal times and to watch the new guys improve.”

The Panthers face off against Lakes at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 17 at Lakes High School Pool.