“I don’t care where I finish as long as I stand next to Lexis,” Lacey Mirandette said at the 2019 swim and dive state meet.
Seniors and identical twins Lexis and Lacey Mirandette dove their way onto the record board this past season.
Their efforts started six years ago when they began diving in middle school. Having limited experience in diving as they focused on gymnastics, the sisters leaned on each other to learn this new sport.
Little did they know that in 7 short years they would both be pool record holders at Northview and continue their diving careers at Davenport University.
“I always have a friend to dive with,” Lexis said. “We go through our dives together because we’re usually doing the same dive and we can critique each other.”
On October 24th, the girls swim and dive team held their last dual meet of the season, which was also senior night. Going into the meet with high emotions, Lexis and Lacey knew this was their last chance to add their own splash to the record board.
Although nervous, the twins depended on their faith to remain optimistic. Their love for eachother pacified every anxious nerve.
“When diving it’s out of your control, trust that everything worked out and you just have to carry out His plan,” Lexis said.
Lacey dove first, and she started the round at the top of her game. Lexis followed with tight twists and perfect flips.
“As sisters they love each other and look out for one another. As divers they help each other through encouragement and being each other’s cheerleader,” Kurt Mirandette, their coach and father said.
The ringing of the bell signified the last round of diving. Each swimmer was on the edge of the pool literally as they watched Lacey’s final dive. Mr. Mirandette, the twins father, coach, best friend, and judge of the competition stood by idly.
But the biggest and loudest supporter has been standing behind her for 18 years.
Lacey spoke to Lexis before her dive, and she was the first one Lacey spoke to after obtaining the pool record.
“It was really crazy to see my work finally paid off,” Lacey said.
With emotions flowing, Lacey held back her excitement of scoring a 308 and breaking the pool and school record to watch her sister perform her final dive as well.
Lacey Mirandette hugs her dad, Kurt Mirandette. After an emotional rollercoaster of a senior night Lacey rejoiced in her family and team. Photo courtesy of Tom Reynolds.
Lexis also contained her joy as she preceded towards the diving board where her sister had just finished. With each bounce the nerves faded and as she jumped, God let her fly.
Finishing with a 312, Lexis beat the pool and school record her sister set minutes before her. In the span of two minutes the twins both conquered goals they had been striving for since the beginning of their career.
“I was really excited but I also had remorse for Lacey because I felt so bad. Like, I broke it. I just wanted her to have the glory and glory to God,” Lexis said.
After congratulating each other, the girls fell into hugs from the entire team, their coaches, and most importantly, their mother and father. As parents and as coaches, they understand Lexis and Lacey’s strengths and weaknesses, yet know how to push them unlike any other.
“It has been a great blessing both coaching and being a dad to Lexis and Lacey. I would not want to change a thing about the wonderful times I have had watching them grow and develop into the young ladies they have become,” Kurt Mirandette said.
