The boys and girls swim teams began their chase of medals today at the UIL 5A State Championships at the University of Texas-Austin. Meet some of the swimmers and alternates who traveled to Austin this weekend.
A number of the individuals and relays reached Saturday’s finals. The finals will begin at 4 p.m. on Saturday.
Marisa Stone
Grade: 11
How many years have you been swimming? 11
How did you do at Region? “I got 4th in my 50 free and 3rd in my 100 free. I got my best time in both events.”
What did you compete in? 200 medley relay, 50 free, 100 free, 200 free relay
Can you describe your experience at Region? “I had a lot of fun at region, despite all the pressure we were under. My expectations were to win the meet and get my personal best times.”
What was your initial reaction when you found out you’re going to State? “I was really excited to represent my school and and have fun with my friends.”
What events will you be swimming at State? “I will be swimming the 50 free, 100 free, 200 free relay and the 400 free relay.”
How are you prepping for State? “I am trying to get enough sleep and focus on what I need to in practice.”
What are your expectations? “I expect to do my best and improve upon my times at Region.”
What has been the hardest part of leading up to State? “The hardest part leading up to State was dealing with the stress while still applying myself in other areas of life.”
What is your favorite memory with the team this year? “My favorite memory with my team this year was winning Regions because we all worked together to win and put in a lot of effort.”
What is your go-to post-meet meal? Mac and cheese
What song do you always try to listen to on meet days? “I try to listen to ‘Better Days’ by Zach Bryan because it puts me in a positive head space.”
Which race are you most excited to watch or race in at State? “I am most excited for the 200 free relay because the same people are in the relay as last year, and I am excited to see how much we have improved though out the past year.”
Elena Amos
Grade: 11
Region events: 200 medley relay (fly), 50 freestyle, 200 freestyle relay, and 100 backstroke
Experience at Region: “I was very excited and just looking forward to it. I didn’t really have high expectations, I just wanted to do good.”
State events: 200 medley relay. 50 freestyle 200 freestyle relay & 100 backstroke
Expectations for State: “I pray that I am able to win the 100 backstroke and maybe set another school record.”
Song to listen to before meets: “Anything Tate McRae! I just love her!”
Which race are you most excited to watch or race in at State? “100 back because I have a good chance to win it!”
Marie Wakefield
Grade: 10th
How many years have you been swimming?: “I’ve done summer league my whole life, but I started to commit in the fifth and sixth grade. I’ve been swimming club year round since then.”
What did you compete in at Region? 200 free, 100 fly, 200 free relay, 400 free relay
Can you describe your experience at Region? “It was a very emotional meet. There was a roller coaster of emotions all throughout the experience, from crying after a horrible race to the incomparable elation and joy from a good race.”
What was your initial reaction when you found out you’re going to State? “The 100 fly was my first race after my failure to qualify in the 200 free. I was disappointed but I knew I had to just shake it off and get ready for the 100 Fly… and I did great! I went almost a full second faster than my best time, and I though I didn’t automatically qualify, I knew my time would be good enough to qualify, and I was really excited.”
What events will you be swimming at State? 200 free relay, 400 free relay, 100 butterfly
How are you prepping for State? “Really trying to take it easy and stay loose and stay ready. I’ve found overthinking your event never works out. Whatever happens this weekend, no matter how fast or slow, will happen. I know that I’ve worked hard, and I’m just so happy and blessed to be finally at State again.
What are your expectations? “We can’t change the past, and we can’t determine the future, but we can shape the present. I’m just trying to stay loose and keep my head with me.”
What is a favorite memory from the season? “Relays qualifying for State are always so much fun.”
What has been the hardest part of leading up to State? “Trying to keep a good mentality and really taking it easy. Turns out I roughhouse too much with my siblings and I carry a lot of heavy stuff, and I don’t drink enough water. I’ve been trying to be better these last couple of weeks.”
What stroke is the worst/hardest and why? “BREASTROKE. It shouldn’t even be a stroke at this point because it’s so awful and miserable. It ruins my knees, and I get lapped whenever I swim it.”
What is your favorite memory with the team this year? “Swim Across America was really fun. Almost everyone was there, and everyone was laughing and having a good time—I loved it.”
What is your go-to post-meet meal and snack? “I really like almonds and nuts during the meet. I am the epitome of health during and before. But afterward, I have the fattiest, unhealthiest fast food I can find… and then I feast.”
What song do you always try to listen to on meet days? “‘What Are You Going to do When You Can’t Save the World’ from Superman and pretty much anything from an epic movie soundtrack.”
Which race are you most excited to watch or race in at State? “The relays are always such a joy to race. I love laughing and prepping behind the blocks with my teammates. I have some great girls that I’m blessed to be able to race with, and it’s always fun.”
Courtney Scott
Grade: 10th
How many years have you been swimming? 12 years
What did you compete in at Region? 200 medley Relay, 200 IM, 100 back, 400 free relay
Can you describe your experience at region? “I was expecting to be around my best times, but the energy at Regions was definitely hyped.”
What events will you be swimming at State?: 200 Medley, 100 backstroke
How are you prepping for State? “Dropping yardage at club and high school, eating healthier, going to bed earlier and trying to not stress myself out.”
What are your expectations? “I hope to drop some time, and to place 1st or 2nd in our medley relay.”
What stroke is the hardest? “Breaststroke, because I’ve just never been able to go fast while swimming it.”
What is your favorite memory with the team this year? “Any out of school team bonding night just because none of us were focused on training and could actually get to know each other.”
What is your go-to post-meet meal? Mexican food
What song do you always try to listen to on meet days and why? “Beef FloMix” by Flo Milli. “It just gets me hyped and wakes me up.”
Which race are you most excited to watch or race in at State? “The 100 back because it’s going to be super quick this year.”
Cecelia Sullivan
Grade: 12
How many years have you been swimming? 12
How did you do at Region? “I did well. I finished 2nd in both of my individual events, and both of the relays I was in came in first. I had a PR in my 100 free, and got close to a PR in my 50 free.”
What did you compete in? 50 free, 100 free, 200 free relay, 400 free relay.
Can you describe your experience at region? What were your expectations? “I expected to do okay, but was worried about our competition going into finals. Because many people weren’t suited up and swimming their fastest in prelims, it was hard to tell where you stood compared to your competition. There was another really good team, Walnut Grove, and although we were seeded to win the meet, I was worried that they would do better than expected. In the end, it was a very exciting meet, and I think we did really well overall as a team.”
What was your initial reaction when you found out you’re going to State? “I was excited, especially being a senior, and this being my last year on the team. It is always such an exciting experience, and a great chance for us to bond as a team, as well as a chance for me to finish out my high school swimming career strongly.”
What events will you be swimming at State? “I will be swimming 50 free, 200 free relay, 400 free relay.”
How are you prepping for state? “I’m primarily trying to make sure that I’m getting enough rest, going to sleep early, and eating well. I’m trying not to think too much about the competition so I don’t stress myself out, but just trying to make sure that I’m in the mindset to do the best that I can do.”
What are your expectations? “I’m trying not to focus on expectations for this meet, because there are so many factors that contribute to how we do, both individually and as a team, many of which that are out of our control. I hope that at least one of our relays get top three, as well are seeded to do well, and I hope to make A finals in my 50 free. In the end, I hope we can walk away from this meet feeling proud of how we swam and of our season, regardless of how the meet went.”
This being your final year, what does going to State mean for you? “It means a lot, especially it being my fourth time going. Every year is a different experience and a different team, and I think this year is going to be really great. I’ve been really fortunate to have been given the opportunity to go to State each and every year, and I hope our swims reflect how hard we’ve been working all year.”
What is a favorite memory from the season? “One of my favorite memories this season was earlier in the year, we had a dinner and pool party together. Me and one of the other swimmers, Marie, made up a synchronized swimming routine, and it was very funny.”
What has been the hardest part of leading up to State? The hardest part leading up to State was the pressure going into Region, because that was your chance at making the State team. I didn’t really know what to expect, because we were in a new district this year with some new teams. Not really knowing what to expect from them was challenging as we prepared for the Region meet.”
What stroke is the worst/hardest? “I would say that butterfly is the hardest, because it requires really good technique to do it correctly, as well as endurance.”
What is your favorite memory with the team this year? “One of my favorite memories with the team this year was the second day of our Region meet at finals. Everyone was focused, but also really excited about the meet and about the upcoming State Meet. Whenever they announced that we had won the meet, it was so exciting to see that all our hard work over the course of the season had paid off, and that we had such a strong State team.”
What is your go-to post-meet meal and snack? “I usually go to Chick fil A, and get chicken strips and a side salad with strawberries.”
Which race are you most excited to watch or race in at State? “I’m really excited for all of our relays, because we’re seeded to do well, and they really help bring to team together. They are just so exciting to watch.”
Marien Martinez
Grade: 9th
How many years have you been swimming? 6
What did you compete in at Region? 200 medley relay, 200 IM and 100 breast.
Can you describe your experience at Region? “It was very fun and exciting, especially finals. My expectations were pretty high but I just wanted to have fun.”
What was your initial reaction when you found out you’re going to State?: I was very excited. All my upperclassmen friends that went last year have said it’s very fun so I’m very excited.”
What event will you be swimming at State?: 200 medley relay
How are you prepping for State? “By staying hydrated and making sure I’m rested.”
What are your expectations? “I just want to enjoy it and do good in the relay.”
This being your first year, what does going to State mean for you? “Going to state means a lot because it’s a pretty big deal and all the hard work is paying off. I think the environment will be very nice and different from past meets.”
What has been the hardest part of leading up to state? “Just managing school work plus hard practices is always kinda tricky.”
What is your go-to post-meet meal and snack? Chipotle & Jeremiah’s
Which race are you most excited to watch or race in at State? “I’m very excited for the 200 medley relay, I think we have a good chance of medaling.”
Amerie West
Grade: 10
How many years have you been swimming? 8 years, but only 4 years competitively.
How did you do at Region? “I got first in the 400 free relay, 5th in 100 fly with a 1:01.1, and 7th in the 50 free with a 25.73.”
What did you compete in? 400 free relay, 50 free and 100 fly
Can you describe your experience at Region? “It was really fun and I dropped time in all my events. This met my expectations although i wished to make State in 100 fly.
What was your initial reaction when you found out you’re going to state? “I was really happy and excited because we weren’t seeded very well in the relay. We dropped a lot of time to get first.”
What event/events will you be swimming at State? 400 free relay
What are your expectations? “I hope we make Top 8 at State in our relay, and it’s as fun as last year.”
What is a favorite memory from the season? When I made my first 1:01 in the 100 fly. I read the wrong time and I thought I went a 1:04, but Marie Wakefield, who was two lanes down from me during the race, yelled from across the pool, “AMERIE, YOU MADE A 1:01!” We celebrated after that, and I was so happy.
What has been the hardest part of leading up to state? Mondays
What stroke is the worst/ hardest? “I think breaststroke is the worst because I don’t know how to go faster and it sucks.”
What is your favorite memory with the team this year? “Swim Across America. That was my first time swimming open water, and I swam the mile. It was really fun with my teammates and we got to swim with two Olympic swimmers.”
What is your go-to post-meet meal and snack? “Chick-fil-A and any sweet treat I can get.”
What song do you always try to listen to on meet days? “Deceptacon” by Le Tigre. “It gets me hyped up and ready for my races.”
Which race are you most excited to watch or race in at State? “I’m excited to watch all the relays and I’m excited to swim the 400 relay.”
Korbin Johnson
Grade: 12th
How many years have you been swimming? 10
How did you do at Region? “I did really well, I was able to split the fastest times of my life to get my team relays to State. I also competed in my individual event, but I had to sacrifice it for the relays.”
What did you compete in?: The 200 medley relay, the 200 IM, the 200 freestyle relay, and the 400 freestyle relay.
Can you describe your experience at region? “I had a really great time. I’ve been really hard on myself this year, because I’m a key on the relays now. So going into region I just tried to relax and have fun. I knew I had done all I could to prepare so there wasn’t a need to get super worried. My expectations were high, especially for me. I wanted a 50 Free split of sub 22 and a 100 Free split of 49.5 or better.”
What was your initial reaction when you found out you’re going to State? “I was excited, but I was more excited to learn that the team had made all three relays to State. That was a goal I thought to be impossible at the beginning of the year.”
What events will you be swimming at State? The 200 medley relay and the 200 freestyle relay.
What are your expectations? “For my team, I wanted us to make finals on Saturday in my events. For me, I want a 21.60 in my 50 split. I’ve got two shots to do it.”
This being your final year, what does going to State mean for you? “It’s a little sad, but it’s also a huge accomplishment. I’ve been gunning for State since my sophomore year, and I got to be an alternate my sophomore and junior year. But this time, I made it there to swim and I’m just happy to go.”
What is a favorite memory from the season? “Region Finals. The boys blew my expectations for them out of the water and it was amazing to watch. That plus the girls shattering school records and winning, I can’t forget it.”
What has been the hardest part of leading up to State? “Trying to stay focused. My biggest focus this year was Region, making it to State. Now that I’m here I have to really try to keep going through State.”
What stroke is the worst/hardest? “Breaststroke, hands down. I’m so bad at it. It’s my slowest stroke by far and I suck at it. I can’t ever figure it out.”
What is your favorite memory with the team this year? “The 400 free relay at TISCA. That was when I first saw the true potential of the team and it got me really excited.”
What is your go-to post-meet meal and snack? “Pizza, it’s always good after a meet, no matter where you go to get it.”
What song do you always try to listen to on meet days? “There’s not too many super specific songs, but I do like to listen to ‘Ice, Ice, Baby.’ It reminds me of my freshman year when it hyped me up.”
Which race are you most excited to watch or race in at State? “The 200 Free Relay, I think the team we have is fast enough to make it into A final on Saturday and that’s awesome.”
Grayson Longhofer Hunt
What grade are you in?: 10
How many years have you been swimming?: 5.5 years
Is this your first time going to state?: Yes
What did you compete in?: 100 freestyle
Can you describe your experience at region? What were your expectations?: Was the most fun meet I have even been too
What event will you be swimming at state?: 400 freestyle relay
How are you prepping for state?: I am dropping because I have a champion club meet the weekend after
What are your expectations?: To do pretty good for our team over all we are going to not do very well
What is your go to post meet meal and snack?: Post meal is some Olive Garden and snack probably some protein bars
Which race are you most excited to watch or race in at State and why?: 400 freestyle relay because its my only event lol but nah its also just so much fun to be swimming with my friends
Debbie Sullivan
Grade: 12
How many years have you been swimming? For Kingwood Park 3 years, for summer league 11 years
What did you compete in at Region? 500 free
Can you describe your experience at region? At Region, I came in with the hope to improve my time and cheer on my teammates. As this was my last time swimming the 500, and possibly my last high school meet, I hoped that I could push myself to be better and get a PR, and that all of my diligence during the season would pay off. It turns out, I did get my best time. And I had a great time cheering on my team.”
What was your initial reaction when you found out you’re going to State? I was very surprised when I heard I was going to state!! I have always gone with family to Austin to support my sister Cece, but I wasn’t expecting to go as a swimmer. I am so incredibly glad that I get to be a part of the team this year and have this amazing conclusion to my senior season.”
What are your expectations? “At State, besides enjoying the experience of traveling with the team, I hope to cheer on my teammates, and help those who are swimming in any way I can. I know from personal experience that meets like this can be really fun, but also super stressful, so I want to do everything I can to keep the energy up.”
This being your final year, what does going to State mean for you? “This will be my first and last time going to State, and I am so glad that I get to go. I have worked very hard to be where I am, and even if I didn’t get to go to State I would be proud of how I’ve done this season. However, to see all of my dedication pay off is pretty cool. I know that the seniors say it most years, but this group of girls is incredibly close and unlike any team I’ve had. I am excited for State, and can’t wait to see what our team will accomplish.”
What is a favorite memory from the season? “My favorite meet from the season was probably our Senior Night meet, because all of my family and a few friends came. It was fun to celebrate with all the other seniors. Also, our coaches let us lift in the weight room this year; and even though it was super early in the morning, I really enjoyed it. I definitely saw a difference in my times.”
What has been the hardest part of leading up to State? “Overall, my season leading up to State has been pretty good. The hardest part has probably been maintaining a positive/strong mindset and trying to not get anxious during the harder meets.”
What stroke is the worst/hardest? “Butterfly is the hardest for me. Even though I’ve been swimming forever, somehow I can’t get the coordination/rhythm down.”
What is your favorite memory with the team this year? “My favorite memory from the season was participating in Swim Across America with the team. We raised a lot of money for a cause that is personal for a lot of us, and the open water swim was really fun to do with friends, teammates and coaches.”
What is your go-to post-meet meal and snack?: “After a meet, I honestly love any food. I’m always super hungry. But if we are sitting down for a meal then Mexican food is yummy. If we have to drive through somewhere, then a wrap from Chick-fil-A.”
What song do you always try to listen to on meet days? “A few of my favorite random songs to listen to before a meet are ‘Raise a Glass,’ ‘What About Us,’ ‘Hurricane,’ ‘She’s So Gone,’ ‘Since U Been Gone,’ etc. Most are from me and my sister’s running playlist, and they help me feel ready to go and excited. I choose my music wisely, and it is mostly upbeat fast pop songs, because they get stuck in my head and help me mentally during longer races.”
Which race are you most excited to watch or race in at State and why? “I’m excited to watch the relays, because they are so fast and it’s very fun to cheer them on. Also, I am looking forward to watching all of my sister Cece’s events, because she has works so hard and I can’t wait to see what she will accomplish. Also, I think the 500 is cool to watch, because it is my event, and I am in awe of how fast the State times are.”
Dylan Black
Grade: 9th
How many years have you been swimming?: More than five
What did you compete in at Region? The 200 free, 100 fly, 200 free relay and the 400 free relay
What event will you be swimming at State? 400 free relay
What are your expectations? “To have fun and to swim fast.”
This being your first year, what does going to State mean for you? “It’s a long ways from home, and it is the biggest meet of the season.”
What is a favorite memory from the season? “The championship meets. They were really fun and stressful.”
What stroke is the worst/hardest? “Butterfly. I love it, but it’s a real pain.”
What is your go-to post-meet meal and snack?: Chicken or steak. The snack would be anything I can find in my pantry or fridge.”
Which race are you most excited to watch or race in at State? “The relays, in general. I really hope that at least one of the guys relays make finals.”
Marisa Chinen
Grade: 11
Region events: 200 and 500 freestyle
Expectations for State: “To encourage my team and hope for a podium.”
Favorite memory from the season: “Finally getting back into the water at Senior Night and being able to compete.”
Hardest part leading up to State: “The stress factors from Region and then maintaining my training.”
Favorite memory with the team: “Everyone cheering me on at region and dropping time in that swim. It stands out because it was the first time the whole year I felt confident in my ability to swim my best.”
Favorite post-meet meal and snack: Froyo and Raisin’ Canes.”
What race are you most excited to see at State: “100 back because Elena is seeded first and she’s gonna be great.”
Cali Collins
Grade: 10
What did you compete in at Region? 100 free
What was your initial reaction when you found out you’re going to State? “I was very excited about the opportunity and the memories I’m going to make.”
What has been the hardest part of leading up to state? “Getting up early.”
What stroke is the worst/hardest? “Butterfly is hard.”
What is your go-to post-meet snack? Sushi.
What song do you always try to listen to on meet days? “Man in the Box” by Alice in Chains
Ava Bailey
Grade: 11
How many years have you been swimming? 14
What did you compete in at Region? 200 freestyle and 500 freestyle
How did you do at Region? “Better than I expected. I got 5th and 3rd.”
Can you describe your experience at Region? “Overall, it was a blast. I wasn’t expected to do as well as I did, and our team performed fantastically!”
What was your initial reaction when you found out you were going to State? “I was excited. I love supporting my team in general.”
What is a favorite memory from the season? “Personally, the challenges and everything. Seeing everyone grow.”
What stroke is the worst/hardest? “Breaststroke. I don’t have the best knees, and it’s a complicated stroke.”
What is your go-to post-meet meal? “Usually Mexican food.”
Rilee Flake
What grade are you in? 9th
How many years have you been swimming? 13
What did you compete in at Regions? 100 free
With this being your first year, what does going to State mean for you? “i think it’s going to be a lot more crowded than my normal meets.”
What is your go-to post-meet meal and snack? Fast food and ice cream.
What song do you always try to listen to on meet days and why? “I Never Lie” by Zach Top. “I just love his music.”
Which race are you most excited to watch at State? “The relays, because i think they are always the most exciting to watch.”
Addison Blons
Grade: 10
How many years have you been swimming? 8
How did you do at Region? “Good. I placed 7th in the 500 free and 9th in 100 back.”
Can you describe your experience at region? “I went in with high expectations for myself and left feeling proud of what I accomplished.”
What is a favorite memory from the season? Winning the B final at Region finals and looking up at the board and seeing my time and place.”
What stroke is the worst/hardest? “Breaststroke. It’s the worst to me because I can barely swim it due to my knee problems. Overall, I feel like it’s such a slow stroke and boring.”
What is your favorite memory with the team this year? “Hanging out in the locker room. Blasting music while getting ready for school is one of the best parts of swim for me. I feel like that’s when we can really get to know each-other and bond.”
What is your go-to post-meet meal? Chick-fil-A.
What song do you always try to listen to on meet days? “I usually just turn on some random playlist on Spotify full of hype songs and it’ll usually do the trick.”
Which race are you most excited to watch or race in at State? “I’m most excited to watch the relays. They are all so fast and exciting to watch.”
Lucy Foltz
Grade: 12th
How many years have you been swimming?: 14 years
How did you do at Region? “I did very well. I made finals and dropped time in both of my events.”
What did you compete in at Region? 100 backstroke and 200 IM
Can you describe your experience at Region? “I was super excited but also nervous. We had a lot of pressure because it was gonna be tight between us and Walnut Grove. Every person points counted, so I wanted to do really well.”
What was your initial reaction when you found out you’re going to State? “I was super excited. State is an unforgettable experience, and one of my favorite parts of the season.”
This being your final year, what does going to State mean for you? “I’m super happy that I get to experience my last State with such an amazing team. I love each and every person. I’m also super excited to watch my brother CJ Foltz swim in a relay at his first state competition. I’m so proud of him, and I’m glad I’ll be able to watch him swim.”
What is your favorite memory with the team this year? “I really enjoyed our State team dinner. We all ate at Italiano’s and talked with each other. It was a good bonding experience.”
What is your go-to post-meet meal? Mexican food and queso
What song do you always try to listen to on meet days and why? “I try to listen to ‘The Champion (feat. Ludacris)’ by Carrie Underwood or motivational podcasts.”
Which race are you most excited to watch or race in at State? “I’m super excited to watch all the girls’ and guys’ relays. They’re so fun to watch and usually get the most cheers. They also score more points than other events so they are very important. The girls’ relays are seeded well, so it’ll be interesting to see how it plays out.”
Is there anything else you would like to add? “Swimming has been in my life since I was little. All my brothers swam, and I’ve always loved the sport. I’m so glad I’ve gotten to be part of such an amazing program at Kingwood Park, and coach [John] Dissinger is the best!”
John DeFazio
Grade: 9
How many years have you been swimming? About seven years competitively
What did you compete in at Region? 500 free
Can you describe your experience at Region? “The experience was fun but it was packed tight inside and I had no expectations.”
This being your first year, what does going to State mean for you? “To me, State is the biggest swim meet I’ll be going to. I can’t wait. It doesn’t compare at all to previous club and high school meets.”
What has been the hardest part of leading up to State? “Keeping up with expectations and enjoying everything that comes with being a state team member.”
What is your go-to post-meet meal and snack? Sonic Mozzarella sticks and Mexican food
Which race are you most excited to watch or race in at State? ‘The 200 free relay. I think it’s our best and most competitive.”
Ivan Rodriguez
Grade: 11th
How many years have you been swimming?: Six years swimming competitively (Since 5th grade)
What did you compete in at Region? 100 back, 200 IM
Can you describe your experience at Region? “It was a fun time and I expected to drop a bit of time.”
What was your initial reaction when you found out you’re going to State? “I was happy that I was going, and a bit surprised since my times wouldn’t have me swimming solo.”
What event will you be swimming at State? 100 Free in the 400 Free Relay
How are you prepping for state? “Keeping physically active and improving my form.”
What is a favorite memory from the season? “Getting new PBs in District.”
What is your favorite memory with the team this year? “My favorite memory was cheering my friends on at Region.”
