Cape swim teams handle small but strong Lake Forest squads
Cape swimming coach Bill Geppert wanted to make sure his swimmers finished the calendar year strong so they could open 2024 with momentum.
Welcoming Lake Forest in their final meet of 2023 Dec. 21, the Vikings were tested by a group of quality swimmers.
“This is the last week before Christmas break for us,” Geppert said. “We wanted to make sure that we had swimmers in the right events to see that they could qualify for states before Christmas.”
The Spartans picked up the first victory of the meet in the boys’ 200 medley and proceeded to take more in the 200 individual medley and breaststroke. Brian Fleming picked up a win for Cape in the 200 freestyle, then Luke Robertson came within three seconds of winning the 200 individual medley.
Kevin Lewandowski just edged out Ellis Jack in the 50 freestyle to give the Vikings a 1-2 finish in that event. Shane Toback won the butterfly before Fleming picked up another top finish in the 100 freestyle. Freshman Cole Huxtable locked down another 500 freestyle win before both the 200 and 400 freestyle teams picked up wins. Robertson finished second in the breaststroke, while Toback grabbed top honors in the backstroke. The Vikings boys won 103-61.
“Brady Schell qualified for states today in the butterfly,” Geppert said. “We had a nice meet, but he’s someone who stood out.”
The girls cruised their way to an impressive 110-47 victory, taking first place in all scored events. A decision was made to not submit the breaststroke and 400 freestyle relay team victories.
Starting off on the right foot, the 200 medley relay teams for Cape grabbed first and third honors. Hailey Hassell took the distance events for the Vikings with wins in the 200 and 500 freestyle. Freshman Isla Touw’s time of 2:34.89 earned first place in the 200 individual medley, while it was Anna Sullivan who took first in the 50 freestyle and 100 freestyle.
Jenna Reinhold grabbed first in the butterfly and backstroke.
“I know I can always count on somebody like Jenna,” Geppert said. “I'll grab her in the hallway, she'll stop and see me and say ‘Hey, let me see the lineup today. Is there anything I need to do?’ Fantastic student-athlete and a true student of the game. She loves the Xs and Os, and she likes helping me.”
Touw, Reinhold and Sullivan were also on the winning 200 freestyle relay team with Sydney Caldwell.
Cape swimmers will enjoy an extended break from meets throughout the holidays before they restart the season at 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 9, against Caesar Rodney at the Milford Boys & Girls Club.
