Goshen swim team shines in its championship season

Swimming presents its fair share of unique challenges. This past season, the Goshen High School girls swimming program took on those challenges and became champions.

The Gladiators were faced with several difficult obstacles and opponents, but they shined bright with a League championship, winning a 8-0 meet record. All meets included, the Gladiators posted an outstanding record of 10-1.

“I think the standout meets for us were Cornwall and New Paltz,’’ said Goshen head coach Melissa Kubik. “This is the first year we beat either of these teams. By winning these meets, we clinched the Division II League title.’’

Leaders on the roster were plentiful and effective for Goshen this year.

“We have historically had great leadership in our program,’’ Kubik said. “This year our girls chose Korianne Moore and Maya Northrup to lead them as team captains. Their leadership really shined when working with our newest swimmers and making them feel like part of our growing swim family.

“Alex Barnes, Emma Melley, Maya Northrup and Annie Shih have all qualified for the New York State Meet. I feel they lead by example in the pool. Their practice ethics and maturity on deck create a great environment for our program.’’

Room to grow

The student-athletes on the team this fall shared an ability to improve in their chosen events.

“Honestly, all the girls showed continued improvement throughout the season,’’ Kubik said. “We improved our technique, times, and race strategies this year. I think a lot of our success this season came from our depth in our younger athletes. Some of these standout point scores were; Marcy Barnhorst, Ilana Diaz, Emily Kendrick, Kyla Kropp, Amanda Melley, and Grace Rocchio.’’

Goshen plans to build on their achievements for greater success in future seasons.

“I am optimistic about next season because all our State qualifiers are returning and we have a lot of girls who have committed to swimming year round with local USA Swim Teams,’’ Kubik said.’’

A strong support system helped propel the Gladiators to a championship season.

“I think an important aspect of any youth sport is the parents and community around the program,’’ Kubik said. “We are very fortunate to have a parent board that makes sure these athletes have everything they need, and the Goshen School District has been incredibly supportive of our young program.’’