Described as the "greatest show on surf", the Fred Cooper Memorial District Invitational lived up to its billing on Sunday, February 13 at Keating Natatorium.  310 athletes representing 15 schools packed the facility and created an electric atmosphere that was matched by performances in the pool.  The AquaBombers squad of 44 were on fire winning all eleven events.

Every member of the Long Blue Lane had a lifetime best swim.  Leading the way was freshman Liam Bien who earned Swimmer of the Meet accolades.  His wins as a member of the 200 Medley and 200 Free Relays, as well as individual gold in the 50 Free and 100 Breast, were all lifetime bests.  Joining him on the Medley were Nick Rucker [FR], Kellen Loudin [SR] and Henry Berry [SR].  David Fogler [JR], Loudin, Bien and River Stanford-Kososki {SR] handled the 200 Free Relay triumph.

Fogler was also a double individual first place finisher in the 200 IM and 100 Fly.  He finished off his day's work with a win on the 400 Free Relay with Berry, Rucker, and Jonathan Naylor [FR].

Michael Clouse [SR] was the class of the field in the 200 Free.  Rucker (100 Free), Naylor (500 Free) and Berry (100 Back) also topped the podium.  While no team score was kept, it was clear from the outset that it was going to be a very special conclusion of the season for those representing Bomberville.  With a focus, intensity and enthusiasm reserved for "Cooper Bowl Sunday" every athlete got in on a very special experience.

With the number of entrants, the "Coop" marked the largest high school meet hosted at Keating Natatorium this year.

The event honors the memory and remarkable attributes of the late Fred Cooper.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS –

• 176 Season Best swims – 89% Season Best (100% multiple season bests)
• 169 Lifetime Best swims – 86% Lifetime Best (100% had a lifetime best)
• 7 of 11 events faster than last year
• 18 swims would have qualified for Districts this year
• Class of the Coop – Seniors (5), Juniors (6), Sophomores (13), Freshmen (20)

 
COACHES' COMMENTS –"This meet is so special.  What a great way to celebrate a season of hard work and bringing it together as a team," offered head coach Dave Albert, who displayed his "Coop" medal from 2007.

"If we could have sold smiles we would have made a lot of money.  It is so gratifying to be a part of this event," noted coach Zach Vogelpohl.

"Last year we were limited in attendance.  Today we made up for it with spirit that filled Keating .  An inspired and inspiring performance from athletes, coaches and the hundreds in the stands," commented coach Matt Normile.

"So much growth from our guys.  We appreciate their willingness to embrace the program.  It was clearly on display today," reflected coach John Zink.

"When we approach the weekend, we do so with an effort to offer our athletes the opportunity to swim fast.  More importantly, to also understand what and why we approach the sport the way we do," observed coach Don DiGiacomo.

"Fred Cooper was a wonderful man and friend.  I think he would be pleased," summarized assistant head coach Tom Keefe.