Ocean Eyes

Chapter - 6

It's been a couple of weeks since Professor Itthipat became their adviser. True to his words, he's been training them vigorously.

"Alright! That will be it for warm-ups." Itthipat whistled, gaining everyone's attention, "I could see that Earth had improved the most last round, so he'll get a break from this set." He then looked at others, "Everyone else, I want another ten laps out of you before we take a break."

Mew clinged to the side of the pool, trying to catch his breath. 'Practice just started, and I'm already tired.' Mew wheezed.

"Professor, are you sure this is a good idea?" Earth asked looking at Itthipat, "Not everyone is used to this kind of training."

"You've had more than a week to get used to it." Itthipat said, raising his eyebrow, "If you're having trouble now, you should have practiced more on your own. This was the part of the agreement you struck with me." He shrugged, "If you want to remain a club, you'll follow through."

"What's the point of pushing us so hard. Haven't you ever heard of easing into things?" Tae asked from the other end of the pool.

"Though my methods are strict, they've proven to be effective." Itthipat smirked, "For example, Earth was barely able to finish a lap when we began a couple weeks ago. Now, he's able to beat you all in breaststroke during warm-ups."

"There's no point in pushing us so hard, though. Why can't we all get a break?" Tae spatted out in frustration.

"I think Tae's right. We haven't had enough time to adjust to these changes. It would be better if we eased ourselves into this over the next few practices." Mew said, looking up at their coach.

"I expected more from you, Mew." Itthipat shook his head, "As a club president, I thought you would be the one to set a good example for your members."

"I'm looking out for them." Mew frowned, "You can't expect us to perform well if we don't enjoy ourselves."

Professor Itthipat thinks for a moment before sighing in resignation. "Very well, I'll offer leniency this time. But do not expect this to happen often."

Itthipat then blowed his whistle, "Alright, that's enough for now, everyone out of the pool for a break."

"Thank goodness.." Tul shouted dramatically. "My legs feel like they're made of jelly."

Itthipat looked intently at Tul for a second and replied with a blank stare, "I'm sure you'll get used to swimming with those legs of yours in due time."

'Why does his reply feels like he knew something!!' Tul tilted his head but doesn't question Professor Itthipat's comment.

"Now, I have some news to discuss with you all." Itthipat started, gaining the member's attention, "I've been in contact with the other schools to get a better idea of how to best serve as your adviser. After some discussion, I've managed to arrange for a friendly match with Siam University."

Mew gaped at their adviser, "No way! You got them to agree that quick?"

Itthipat nodded his head, "They seemed eager to scout out the talent we have, no matter how small our group is." He smiled, "It would be foolish for me to disagree with them."

Mew tilted his head, "Is that why you're pushing us so hard?" Itthipat nodded.

"I checked their rankings from last year. Everyone here will need to make marked improvements to stand a chance against them." Itthipat replied.