Two weeks ago at the Sunflower League meet, Lawrence High’s girls swimming and diving team broke a school record in the 200 medley relay with two freshmen and two sophomores.

The Lions hope it’s only the start of some record-breaking performances, competing at the Class 6A state swimming prelims at 10 a.m. today at the Capitol Federal Natatorium in Topeka.

“It’s crazy to think that we’re going to go so far and we’re still so young,” sophomore Jamie Abernathy said. “It’s awesome.”

The Lions are aiming for a top-three finish in the team standings, excited to see how much time they can drop since the league meet.

Lawrence took fifth at state last year, its best placing since 1999.

‘I think we have a good shot at top three,” Abernathy said. “I think that’s a good goal for us. We might end up fourth, but as long as we’re going up from last year is all that matters.”

Lawrence’s record-breaking medley relay is seeded first heading into state. Sophomore Emily Guo has the top seed time in the 200 individual medley and freshman Marian Frick is seeded No. 1 in the 100 breast.

“Our goal is definitely to win the medley relay,” freshman Megan Drumm said.

Free State’s girls swimming team is expected to contend for a state title along with Shawnee Mission East, Wichita East and Lawrence.

The Firebirds were runner-up to SM East at the league meet by 37 points.

“I feel prepared because I know I’ve worked hard this whole season,” said senior Charlotte Crandall, who is seeded 18th in the 200 IM and 500 free. “I know all of my teammates have worked really hard, so I think we’re going to do pretty well.”

Free State junior Claire Campbell owns the top-seeded time in the 100 free and ranks second in the 200 free.

“I’m really excited about how the team is going to do, and I’m kind of sad about this having to be my last time,” senior Kara Krannawitter said. “I’m always thinking about, ‘This is my last race ever.’ It’s scary and exciting at the same time.”

Krannawitter, seeded 17th in the 100 breast, said the Firebirds spent time during Wednesday’s practice to talk about how to prepare to state for the first-time qualifiers.

“I feel like we’ve kind of prepared them,” Krannawitter said. “You can’t really describe what it’s like. You just have to feel it and be there in the moment. It’s just an overwhelming experience and so fun.”