ST. X and Canton a Holiday Tradition
26 schools from all parts of Ohio gathered for the 21st Annual Canton City Christmas Invitational. C. T. Branin Natatorium was the venue and the Long Blue Lane swam to a runner-up finish in the prelim/final format. St. X was represented by 21 swimmers and contested on December 20. The meet keeps getting better as 6 of the 11 events were faster than last year, making it more challenging to earn a spot in finals.
The relays provided the highlights for the AquaBombers as season bests (STP's) and best lifetimes (BLT's) were in abundance.
Also making the championship final were
Corbin Potter [FR] (5
th – 500 Free) and Serafin (5
th – 100 Breaststroke)
Multiple finalists were in individual events were:
- Potter (200 Free, 500 Free)
- Hoelle (200 Free, 100 Free)
- Miles McKeever [SR], (200 Free, 100 Breast)
- Morris (50 Free, 100 Free)
- Schibi, J. T. (200 Free, 100 Back)
- Serafin (100 Free, 100 Breast)
- Ray Zembrodt [SO] (200 IM, 100 Back)
Top 5 Team Scores
Mason       537
St. Xavier  151
Wyoming   147
Granville   120
Boardman  109
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- 10 swims would have qualified for District last year
- Prelims 89% STP's (Season Top Performances) – 100% had at least one
- Finals 65% STP's – 69% had at least one
- Prelims  58% BLT's (Best Lifetime) – 81% had at least one
- Finals  56% BLT's - 69% had at least one
- "Attendance Report"Â Seniors (2), Juniors (8), Sophomores (7), Freshmen (4)
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"We raced all day long.To watch our guys compete well at this level was a significant development.The relays really stepped up and had plenty of support from teammates," reported coach Matt Normile.
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"The meet was fast and deep.Earning a spot in finals was challenging.But the athletes raced well.To be a part of some great efforts was exciting to watch," offered coach
Gerry Vondenbrink.
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"We came with a purpose and a focus.When guys are going lifetime best at the end of a 12 hour day, you appreciate the rigorous training and positive attitudes.More to come, but a meaningful experience, summarized coach
John Zink.
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