Anthony Wayne Swimmers Claim League Championship
by: Aaron He, AWHS Communications Intern
Embarking on a season filled with challenges and triumphs, the Anthony Wayne Swim and Dive Teams navigated the waters with resilience, unity and a shared passion for the sport. It's not just about winning titles; it's about the spirit of collaboration and growth that defines the swim team family.
Enduring the challenges of swimming practice throughout the season was a shared experience for the team, but their collective effort and support helped them overcome the difficulties together. Their hard work and persistence paid off in the pool as the teams found success during the season’s early dual meets.
Both the boys and girls teams clinched the NLL championship for the second time in a row at the Bowling Green State University Recreation Center, a testament to the team's hard work and dedication. Going into the meet, both the girls and boys team hoped to come out on top knowing that both teams were slightly favored in terms of rankings. Even with this knowledge, the team knew that they would have to do their best to ensure a victory for the team.
Top performances in the pool for the girls team include girls Team NLL Champions Mallory Syrek (First Team in 200 Yard IM, First Team in 100 Yard Breaststroke); and Kate Hildebrand, Colleen Hildebrand, Mallory Syrek and Fiona Freeman (First Team in 200-Yard Freestyle Relay)
Other outstanding performers at the league meet were Cami Crandell, Tess Bublick, Riley Heath, Summer Link, Gillian Yoder, Colleen Hildebrand and Fiona Freeman, who received second-team honors for their efforts.
Mallory Syrek was named Athlete of the Week by Anthony Wayne Athletics for her exceptional contributions to the team.
"It's been great for me and the entire team,” she said. “I think we are all working hard, which should show in the upcoming championship meets. I have high hopes for what I can do, and I look forward to seeing what happens."
Jarrett Jenkins emerged as the MVP for the boys team, leaving an indelible mark with three first-team finishes (50-Yard Freestyle, 100-Yard Freestyle and 200-Yard Freestyle Relay). He set a new school record in the 50 Yard Freestyle, with a time of 22.00 demonstrating his exceptional speed and skill in the water.
"It [the season] has been short so far because I'm new,” said Jarret Jenkins, AWHS junior. “But I've had fun with the new people that I've met and hope to finish the season strong."
Also swimming to victory in the 200-Yard Freestyle Relay and earning first team honors were Logan Bublick, Aaron He and Orry Farrington. Earning second team honors for the Generals were Logan Bublick, Max Gottschalk, Caleb Grubbs, James Harden, Aaron He and Orry Farrington.
"The season has been exciting to say the least,” said Aaron He, AWHS senior. “It's always great to see the team having fun and pushing each other. I'm excited to see what the end of the season will look like."
Both teams hope to make a splash as the run to the state continues with the JV championships taking place on February 3, followed by sectionals, districts and finally, the state competition.