The 2024-2025 season has been nothing short of extraordinary for the Rockville High School Swim and Dive Team. Both the girls and boys teams showcased their talent and dedication, achieving undefeated 5-0 records in the regular season.
The hard work and perseverance of the swimmers paid off as both teams went on to win their divisional championships. The victories at divisionals were a proud moment for the entire rockville community, highlighting the strength of our swim teams.
“I largely achieved my goals of improving times and technique through consistent effort and coaching feedback,” said junior Brig Barnett, when asked what helped him reach his goals he had set for the season.
As the season progressed, the teams continued to excel, culminating in impressive performances at the state championships. The girls team secured a commendable third place overall, and the boys teams achieved a second place finish.
“One of the most memorable highlights for me this season has been breaking a record in the 200 freestyle relay with Sora Hawman, Lilly Baillie and Maeve Cutter. This record was from 1999 and it was pretty cool to have the opportunity to break it,” said junior Paige Henry.
Another highlight for the girls team was the impressive performances from our underclassmen. Freshman Sora Hawman placed fourth overall at states for the 100-yard backstroke. Sophomore Maeve Cutter finished in first place at states earning her title for first overall in the 200 yard freestyle.
Performances led by junior Deren Akselioglu, who secured a first place finish for 200 IM and also competed for second place finishes in both the 200 Medley Relay and the 200 Free Relay. Joined by Mark Henry, Joe Watkins, Brig Barnett, and Loki Smyth, these contributed to the Rockville Boys achieving their 4th top 2 finish in a row.
“I told myself at the beginning of the season that I want to go to metros. Luckily I was able to go to metros and regardless of how I did it was a great achievement just being at the meet,” junior Caroline Cooke said. “I’ve also reached my goal of going back to the states for the 3rd time. It feels good to know all your hard work pays off.”
In addition to these individual achievements, the teamwork among the swimmers played a crucial role in their success. With some of their teammates, despite not qualifying for states or divisions, still making the drive to go and support their fellow swimmers. The support they provided each other, both in and out of the pool was instrumental in their undefeated regular season and success at divisionals and states.
“At the start of the season I would say the goal would have been to break a record in one of our relays,” Henry said.“This was achieved in not one but two of our girls relays!”
