Area Swim Teams Poised for Competitive Season Following Strong Showing at State Championships
Following a year that saw two individual state champions emerge from the local ranks, area swim teams are gearing up for what promises to be a highly competitive season. Several programs boast strong returning rosters and promising newcomers, setting the stage for exciting races and potential postseason success.
Central falcons Aim to Build on Third-Place finish
The Central Falcons finished third in the Class 2 boys state swim meet last season and are resolute to continue their upward trajectory. A wealth of returning talent anchors the team, including key swimmers Greyson Dalton, Devon Hawkins, Elliot Mann, Paxton Andrews, and Theo Brown on the boys’ side. They are joined by Leland Cook, Adrian Dandridge, Cooper Rice, Ethan Street, Brayson Windsor, Ashton Mowrey, and AJ Campbell. New additions Zach Sharp and Jakob Louk are expected to contribute immediately.
For the girls, Kendra Bolstridge, Claire Burk, Lucy George, kassidy Leake, and Siena mason lead the charge, alongside Ellie Bartley and Carleigh Pedersen. lydia Artz and Annie Williams represent promising new faces for the Falcons.
“I am very excited to see what this season brings,” said Central swim coach Rachel Lewis. “We had a lot of exciting moments last season, and I feel like we have a solid foundation to build upon this year. We lost seven phenomenal swimmers and exceptional teammates last season but our swimmers are excited and driven to reach for and achieve their goals this season.” The Falcons kick off their season at the Maggie Walker Invitational on Saturday. Lewis added, “I am looking forward to a season of constantly setting goals, putting in the work to achieve those goals, and accomplishing those goals. I’m looking forward to seeing what our swimmers are capable of this season.”
Sherando Warriors Navigate Transition After State Champion’s Graduation
The Sherando Warriors face the challenge of replacing Toby Winston, the Class 4 state champion in the 200 free, who graduated last year. Despite this loss, the program remains in a strong position for both its boys and girls teams. Aiden Callas and Isaiah McManigle are key returners for the boys,with William Norris and Ryan Roadruck joining as newcomers. gracie Sims, Molly Eanes, Savannah Judy, and Sienna Forrer will lead the girls’ team, alongside newcomer maddison Lahr
james monroe Yellow Jackets Look to Improve on Last season’s Performance
The james Monroe Yellow Jackets are looking to build on last season’s success, with a focus on both individual and relay performances. The team is bolstered by the return of several experienced swimmers, and looking to place in several events at state. On the girls side, we are hoping to benefit from the experience and depth from our returners, including Abril Calderon who went to state last year. The girls team is determined to go all-in for relays, and also, individual events. We are excited to see what an addition of 10 girls brings to our program.”
Strasburg rams Rely on State Champion Davis to Lead Strong Girls Team
The Strasburg Rams return a particularly strong girls team, spearheaded by junior Emily Davis, the reigning Class 2 state champion in both the 200 IM and 100 fly.Davis is joined by returning teammates Addison Jones, Kali Polk, Rayna Mrizek, and Piper Dellinger. Coach Ina Rae Crisman also highlighted the advancement shown by Kathryn Gimple, Shyann Bradley, and Catherine Brown. Nehemiah Thomas and Kyler Secrist are key returners for the boys’ team.
“We have a very young and new team, but in just a few weeks of practice there has been a great deal of improvement,” Crisman said. “They are all working extremely hard. They ask questions and listen to the coaching. We feel good about the progress and what will come later in the season.” Strasburg will also compete in the Maggie Walker Invitational on Saturday. Crisman anticipates strong performances from Nehemiah Thomas and Kyler Secrist in individual events for the boys, while expecting the core group of Davis, Jones, Polk, Mrizek, and Dellinger to lead a competitive girls’ team. She added, “We are excited to see how Emily Davis will do this season as well as Kali Polk. Piper Dellinger’s coming off of a successful cross country season and we are hopeful that will help her and carry over.”
