Every Sunday at five o’clock, the calm waters of the HFC pool turn into the ultimate splash zone. Instead of the swim team gliding up and down the lanes, the eighty football players who played in the game the day before trade their shoulder pads in for swim trunks as they jump in for their pool workout.

Instead of the standard tackle circuits and play calling, you find cannonballs, laughter, and players relaxing after a hard-fought game day.

Instead of putting the players on the field for an agility workout, the pool now gives them a way to exercise without risking injury. Linebackers coach and special teams coordinator Tyler Wilson says the switch is highly beneficial for the team’s success.

“It gives the guys a chance to flush out soreness, take pressure off their joints, and still get movement in, but in all honesty, it goes beyond that. They connect, have fun, and unwind after a challenging game. It unites everyone,” Wilson said.

Players treading water, jogging in place, and even using the pool’s ledges for strength training and pull-ups make it appear like fun on the surface. The splashes, this aquatic session is one of the few times during the week when players are free to be who they are.

Not only do the workouts help with soreness, but the players also love them for another reason: the opportunity to bond more closely with the team.

Myles Smith, a senior free safety, believes that when the workouts started, the team became its players just being together on a lighter workout day.

“I think it just takes most of the strain off our bodies. It’s not really a day off because moving in the pool isn’t easy, but it’s not strenuous either. We’re actually going out there to run, lift, or do anything like that. So I would say it’s easier on our bodies, but we’re still getting a good workout,” Smith said.

The QU football team is on track for one of its best seasons in program history, as the Hawks are pushing for their first eight-win season. According to the Hawks, this practice has helped players recover, boost spirits, and find new energy for the second half of the season, when every hit and every game counts more. One thing is sure: whether it is viewed as an issue or a lighthearted way to recover, the Hawks now own Sundays at the HFC pool.