Or faster at 8 years old.

Are swim meets that important given that it is an individual sport other than to teach her the mental aspect of racing?

I know nothing of swimming but My initisl thoughts would try to get with a personal coach that manages the yearly traing to avoid burn out or overworking and to prevent injury and then use a team to help meet personal goals and for access to the pool.

8 just seems young. If she has the genetics and traing it seems like she will get there eventually.

But I have zero experience with swimming.