Muskogee swimmers continue to make waves as the high school swim season warms up making preparations for the OSSAA state championships next February. After having state qualifiers and medal winners the past three seasons from the girls program, coach Beth Wells 2021-22 team has broadened its wake with the success of the boys lineup.
“We’ve got four boys in the pool that are proving they have the talents to compete at the top level,” replied Wells. “I’m confident they will continue to improve their times and be in contention for qualifying in a very competitive pool of Class 6A swimmers.
Jack Gilliam, a sophomore is the fastest sprinter having claimed a silver medal in the 50 free and a 5th place finish in the 100 free during competition at the Booker T. Washington Invitational and swims the fourth leg of the Roughers freestyle relay squad. Daylin Duran, a junior who is a first time competitive swimmer joins the relay squad along with Wyatt Stephens, whose proficient strokes earned a bronze medal in the 100 backstroke at the recent swim meet. Freshman swimmer Phoenix Sourjohn completes the four-man team relay and also competes in the 100 free.
“Our program continues to grow,” smiled Wells. “We have 13 varsity swimmers and seven additional athletes working diligently to prove their talents. And, our 6-8th grade swimmers are giving us a foundation for future success.”
Wells and Karen Bradley have worked with the swim team since its first start four years ago and have expanded the training and development with the addition of Tate Conrad to the coaching staff.
“Coach Conrad is a real plus to our program,” Wells added. “She is knowledgeable, hard working and dedicated to our kids.”