Ep 11. E 11

Haruka and Makoto are shown in a memory from their childhood where they were racing in a pool. Haruka was not interested in swimming at first and Makoto was worried about him. During their race together, Haruka realizes that he did not feel anything while swimming and Makoto helped him find his passion for swimming. In the present day, at the Iwatobi Swim Club, the team discusses their upcoming relay race against Samezuka Academy. Nagisa reflects on the progress they have made as a team since their first day of swimming and how much they have grown. The team members vow to do their best in the relay race.

The episode then shows flashbacks from the perspective of each team member, highlighting their individual stories and struggles. Rin reflects on his childhood desire to be the best swimmer, fueled by his competitive nature and his father's encouragement. Rei looks back on how he joined the swim team to become more well-rounded and how he found his own passion for swimming. Nagisa remembers how he wanted to impress a girl he liked by joining the swim club but found a deeper connection to swimming as a sport and the bond he shares with his teammates. Finally, Makoto reflects on the importance of the team, and how he has grown to love and respect each of his teammates.

As the day of the relay race approaches, tensions rise as the team prepares. The members undergo their own unique preparations for the race, some spending extra time practicing, while others deal with their own anxieties and insecurities. However, on the day of the race, they put their differences aside and come together as a team to give it their all. The relay race itself is fast-paced and intense, with each member of the Iwatobi Swim Club giving it their all in order to win. However, despite their best efforts, they ultimately fall short and lose the race to Samezuka Academy.

While the team initially takes the loss hard, they quickly remember the bond they share and the progress they have made as a team. As they reflect on the race and celebrate their accomplishments, they realize that there is still much they can learn and improve upon as a team. The episode ends with the team looking forward to the future and the many races and experiences that lie ahead.

Overall, Free! - Iwatobi Swim Club season 1 episode 11 is a powerful and emotional episode that highlights the bond between the members of the Iwatobi Swim Club. Through a series of flashbacks and reflections, the episode develops each character and showcases their individual motivations, fears, and aspirations. The final relay race is the culmination of all their hard work and serves as a testament to the power of teamwork and perseverance. While the team ultimately falls short, their spirits remain high as they look ahead to the future and all the challenges that lie ahead.