Norwin’s goal: ‘Swim fast and be hungry’

By: Bill Beckner Jr.
Saturday, January 20, 2024 | 11:01 AM

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Norwin’s swimming teams are hoping to take the momentum of a pre-holiday run into the thick of the season schedule.

The boys team had a 5-1 record and the girls were 3-3 as WPIAL section play was ramping up.

“We (were) heading into the hardest part of the year over Christmas and the few weeks after,” coach Doug Watson said. “We have really been putting in hard work, so I’m hoping to see the rewards in the next few weeks.”

The Knights also were getting primed for the Westmoreland County Coaches Association Championships on Jan. 26-27 at Derry.

The top returning swimmers for the boys include seniors Connor Lydon (50/100 freestyle), Cole Kubistek (200 IM/ 100 breaststroke) and Noah Mulac (200 free/500 free) and junior Tyler Turgeon (100 fly/back).

Freshman Aiden Samuels is also a WPIAL qualifier in the 100 back.

For the girls, top swimmers are seniors Chloe Black (200 free/ 100 backstroke), Allison Arendas (50/100 free), Rosie Gaydos (200 IM/ 500 free), Emily Arendas (200 IM/100 breast), Julia Walko (200 free/500 free) and Olivia Ivory (50/100 free).

“The goal is to get all six relays qualified and as many individuals as possible,” Watson said. “Our section meets are coming up soon along with WCCA championship, so this will be an opportunity to see what kind of times we can hit.”

Watson said Norwin has one of its smallest teams in years, something he attributes to the covid year and the pool being closed for renovations.

“I just want us to swim fast and be hungry,” he said.

Bill Beckner Jr. is a TribLive reporter covering local sports in Westmoreland County. He can be reached at bbeckner@triblive.com.

Tags: Norwin