Oxford’s boys swim and dive team is ready to make some waves this season.

With 31 swimmers and three divers, the team has a near-even split between new and returning athletes.

The team, currently 0-2 overall in the Oakland Activities Association (OAA), moved up to the white division this season after winning the blue division last year.

“We are excited about (having) some more consistent competition this season and focusing on putting Oxford a little more on the map… We have a great group of boys and they are ready to work hard and have fun. We will be focusing quite a bit on technique this year and (on having) the proper mindset needed to be successful,” said Head Coach Jackie Rank.

One standout athlete, according to Rank, is Mitchell Mulligan. “He made it to the state meet last year as a sophomore and is a great role model for the next generation of both swimmers and divers.”

Mulligan is set to compete at this year’s Division 1 State Meet, which will be held in mid-March.

Rank listed many returning athletes also among the team’s front-runners, including Brandon Powers, Garrett Warren, Travis Butler, Lucas Sereno, Jonah Grove, Trenton Sabo, Michael Scepka, and Mario Scribner.

“They are all strong and talented swimmers and we are excited to have them back,” said Rank. “We are also excited about the new additions to the team, including Carter Pollard and Thomas Giberson.”

As they compete in a higher division this season, Rank said she is confident the Wildcats have what it takes to rise to the challenge.

“This is a great group of boys that will do what is necessary over the course of this long season to reach both individual and team goals. I’m excited about this season. It will be a new challenge as we take on new teams. These boys can accomplish great things and the coaching staff looks forward to helping them do that,” said Rank.

The team’s next meet against Hazel Park will be held Jan. 12 at 6 p.m. in the Oxford High natatorium (745 N. Oxford Rd.).