AMES — The Fort Dodge swim team already has three state qualifiers, and they are hoping to add to that total here on Saturday.

The Dodgers, who are in one of six regional meets across the state, will begin action at noon. Joining FDSH will be Ames, Boone, Carroll, Cedar Rapids Jefferson, Grinnell, Newton and Oskaloosa.

“We had a couple of weeks off and it’s kind of nice for the mindset,” said Dodger head coach Ashley Beaumont. “You never know if it’s too long or not too long, but it was a chance to be together and work with no pressure.”

Fort Dodge senior Hailey Vogel hit the qualifying standard in both the 50 freestyle and the 100 breaststroke earlier this year — the first time a Dodger has wrapped up a pre-regional state berth since 2018.

“Hailey was ninth last year at state,” Beaumont said. “Her goal has been to improve, and she wants to do that while enjoying every minute of it.

“She set the qualifying standard earlier, and wasn’t really expecting that. We just went to Perry for a fun meet and she did it there. She has a great mindset.”

Southeast Valley student Julia Eastman is looking to add two individual events for the Dodgers as well.

“Julia is one of the most focused people I know,” Beaumont said. “She just drives forward. She wants to go for the A final and not just be a part of the B final.

“She has trained hard and is focused and determined. “Hailey and Julia are happy being conference champions, but they want to add regional championships now.”

Beaumont is keeping an eye on two Fort Dodge relays as well.

“We have trained and have been pacing ourselves for this,” Beaumont said. “We are in good spirits and ready to compete.”

Regional champions will earn automatic state spots. Performers who have attained qualifying standards during the regular season are also in, followed by the next best times to reach 32 qualifiers per event.

The state meet will be held in Marshalltown on Saturday, Nov. 16.