The Sidney Yellow Jackets swim team turned in a solid performance at the Ohio Southwest Coaches Classic, competing against some of the strongest programs in the region during the two-day meet. Prelims are held in the morning across 11 pools in SW Ohio. The top 16 times overall make it to finals that evening St. Xavier high school.
On the girls’ side, freshman Emmie Braun represented Sidney well in the backstroke events, racing against a deep field of experienced competitors. She qualified for finals Sunday night in the 50-yard backstroke. Seeded 16th going, she finished 14th overall. A great showing from the freshmen phenom.
Senior Eliana Fink helped Sidney with strong swims across multiple events, including a competitive effort in the 100-yard freestyle. Fellow senior Summer Sprowl also delivered a solid performance in the same event, continuing her consistent season-long progress. Charlotte Schmidt contributed across both freestyle and breaststroke events, while Briana Lewis added depth for the Yellow Jackets with strong swims in freestyle and breaststroke races.
Lucia Helman and Emna Arar also turned in steady performances, gaining valuable varsity meet experience against top-level competition.
The boys’ team also rose to the challenge. Jeremiah Taylor paced Sidney in the individual medley events and played a key role in relay races. Adrian Hernandez competed in the distance events, showcasing endurance in the 500 freestyle. Senior Nicholas Dietz led the sprint group, while Phoenix Schmidt provided strong swims in the longer freestyle events. Jaxxson Payne added to the team’s depth with competitive performances in the backstroke.
Sidney relay teams on both the boys’ and girls’ sides gained valuable experience racing against some of the top lineups in southwest Ohio. The boys’ 200 freestyle relay team of Dietz, Taylor, Carter Shurts, and Hernandez turned in one of the team’s strongest relay efforts of the meet, while the girls’ relay squads showed improved exchanges and closing speed.
Despite facing a deep and talented field, the Yellow Jackets used the Ohio Southwest Coaches Classic as an important developmental meet as the Jackets set over 40 personal records over the weekend.
Sidney will now turn its attention to upcoming league and postseason competition, looking to build on the experience gained at the Ohio Southwest Coaches Classic.