Swimming is a huge sport in the city of Bowie. And Belair Swim and Racquet has always been one of the more successful programs. However, after a below par 2006, BSR fell from the A Division of the Prince-Mont Swim League to the B Division. A new coach also arrived on the scene. Abbie Thompson, a 24-year-old Bowie resident, was hired to take over a program that has seen much success since its inception in 1972.

In 35 years, BSR has won 11 division titles, 16 City Meets, 10 City Relays and gone undefeated throughout a season nine times. That kind of history can lead parents, many of whom competed in Bowie in their respective youths,...