The Centerville Elk Swim Team made their mark at the OHSAA State Meet in Canton, OH, last Friday and Saturday, showcasing their talents and determination in front of a packed crowd. With 5 boys and 6 girls representing the Elks, the team was set for success.

The excitement began on Friday night with Gabi Schopperth diving into action. Gabi showed her prowess in the Para 50 Freestyle, earning a commendable 3rd place with a swift time of 41.86 seconds. She didn't stop there, impressing everyone with a 2nd place finish in the Girls Para 100 Backstroke, clocking in at 1:39.64. Gabi's outstanding performance not only secured her a new school record but also left her previous record in the dust, showcasing her dedication and skill.

Saturday saw more thrilling moments as Gabi's teammates joined her in the pool for the Finals. The Girls 200 Medley Relay team, consisting of Tanvi Bole, Sandhya Narayanan, Anna Gearhart, and Carson Kien, put on a strong performance, finishing 11th with a time of 1:47.39. Anna Gearhart continued the momentum, clinching 13th place in the Girls 200 Individual Medley with a time of 2:08.52.

Matthew Fleisher represented the boys, securing 14th place in the Boys 200 Individual Medley with a time of 1:55.66. Anna Gearhart shone once again, claiming 3rd place in the Girls 100 Butterfly with a record-breaking time of 54.58, earning her a spot in the Junior Nationals.

The Boys 200 Freestyle Relay team, comprised of Matthew Fleisher, Emory Pianki, Caleb Purtee, and William Guerin, gave it their all, finishing 13th with a time of 1:27.45. The Girls 400 Freestyle Relay team, featuring Carson Kien, Sandhya Narayanan, Sophie Sperber, and Anna Gearhart, wrapped up the meet with a solid performance, finishing 15th with a time of 3:37.92.

A big round of applause goes out to all the swimmers for their outstanding performances at the State Meet. Special congratulations are in order for Gabi and Anna, whose achievements have earned them well-deserved recognition on the State Wall plaques at Centerville High School. Their hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship have made the entire Centerville community proud. Go Elks!