The Middlesex High School swim team lost two outstanding seniors to graduation, but Head Coach Jennifer Harrison is encouraged by this year’s team. “We’re led by a strong and experienced group of seniors this year,” she said. “Along with that, we have a fantastic and competitive group of freshmen.
“As usual, we’re not the biggest team, but we have a very solid foundation and I’m looking forward to seeing what they can accomplish this season.”
Unlike the past few years, Coach Harrison is only coaching MHS. Lancaster has its own coach now.
Roster
The Charger swim team is comprised of four seniors: Nielson McMinn, Cheyenne Sears, Ellie Franklin, and Elena Fomin. Juniors on the team are CJ Sears, Gunnar Marston, Chris Butler, and Shannon Hickey. Henry Fleet is the lone sophomore. Freshmen include Allen Leonard, Sophie Sandlin, and Emily Cox.
The Chargers’ first meet was on Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Northern Neck Family YMCA in Kilmarnock. “It went very well,” said Coach Harrison.
“We had a lot of swimmers that swam in their first high school meet, and they did outstanding!”
Senior Nielson McMinn qualified for state in the 100 breaststroke, marking the Chargers first state qualifier with a time of 1:12.36.
The girls were able to participate in all three relays, and had a strong showing in their individual events as well. Senior Cheyenne Sears opened the season with a strong 500 freestyle, and freshman Sophie Sandlin swam a personal best in the 100 butterfly.
“With the addition of sophomore Henry Fleet, who flew in the 50 freestyle with a time of 26.70, the boys will be able to swim all three relays as well, for the first time in four years,” said Coach Harrison. Juniors Chris Butler and Gunnar Marston, both newcomers to the sport, “did fantastic in their first events, especially their 100 breaststroke and 100 backstroke,” said Coach Harrison. “I am so excited to see what this group of kids will accomplish this season!”
