The Ventura College men’s swimming team only fittingly splashed around in celebration after winning its second state championship May 1 at Mount San Antonio College, taking care of second-place Orange Coast College single-handedly 501.5-374.

According to Pirates swimming coach Larry Baratte, it was a collective effort in the team’s journey to the state title.

“We are all excited about our successful season,” said Baratte in an email. “The athletes came together and everyone contributed to the championship environment by working hard everyday.”

Despite the Pirates only taking one individual title in the 50-yard freestyle, and the 200 and 400 medley relay titles over the course of three days of competition, they wound up with the title.

According to Baratte, with only one individual title and two relay titles, yet still taking state, this is what made the championship that much more special.

“The team truly won this together,” he said. “We needed everyone to contribute and our success was on everyone’s shoulders [and] I couldn’t be happier or prouder.”

The Pirates finally got over the hump for their first state title since 2005, finishing second three times and third last season before finally winning it all this season.

The Pirates had 48 swimmers, and all with something to contribute, according to Baratte.

The championship marked the Pirates’ 11th consecutive top five finish in the state championship meet, and the sixth consecutive top three finish.

Despite the success over the years and given the opportunity to be the number one community college swim team in the state, Baratte found his team has learned an important lesson in the process.

“I think that this year’s team all learned a great lesson…when you put the good for the team first, your individual contribution is enhanced [and] we have preached that since day one,” he said. “Ventura College swimming will never be a place for a self-centered athlete.”