Gabe Fabrizio, sophomore

A returning state qualifier, sophomore Gabriel Fabrizio plans to capitalize on his experience going into state again this year. Being in this position already before, he knew a lot was on the line going into regionals.

“Regionals is probably one of the scariest meets in the season, it’s the one leading up to state, but my events all went as I expected,” Fabrizio said. 

He helped the 200 medley relay to a third place finish. He also took third in the 200 IM and won the 100 butterfly by almost a full second.

State for him is not quite going to be like how it was for him last year. Fabrizio plays an even bigger role for the team in this year’s State meet.

“Last year at state I was an alternate and I only swam the relay,” he said. “This year I’m in two individual events, which is a little more scary.”

However, what’s most important to him as he returns to state for the second time, is that he has a good time and enjoys the moment.

“To me, state is honestly just fun, that’s what it was last year,” Fabrizio said.

He credits his team for being there to step up when it came time to compete. It’s been a season long journey to get to this point for the State swimmers .

“These teammates I’ve worked with all year, we get to compete together in state and try to win,” Fabrizio said.

Surprisingly, the part about state that he’s most excited for doesn’t even have to do with the meet at all. The experience means more to him than just the meet itself.

“I’m excited about the hotel and the food, that’s like the best part,” Fabrizio said.