Saint Andrew’s Swimming Shine at State Meet

The Saint Andrew’s School Swimming teams made waves at the Florida High School State Swim Meet on Friday, November 15, held at the Florida Aquatics Swimming & Training Center (FAST) in Ocala. Both the girls’ and boys’ teams delivered stellar performances, earning runner-up finishes in their respective overall team standings and securing numerous state medals, including a championship title.

State Runner-Up Teams

The Scots showcased depth and determination as both the boys’ and girls’ teams earned overall runner-up honors. This remarkable achievement highlights the program's consistency and excellence at the state level.

State Champion: Alexia Sotomayor

Senior Alexia Sotomayor stood atop the podium in the 100-yard butterfly, claiming the title of State Champion. Her gold-medal performance not only secured individual glory but also added to the Scots’ impressive medal haul, further cementing her legacy as one of Saint Andrew’s finest.

Multi-Medalist: Lucas Bailey

Lucas Bailey had a standout meet for the boys, earning two individual silver medals in the 50-yard freestyle and the 100-yard freestyle. Bailey’s exceptional performances also contributed to the boys’ relay success and the breaking of a school record, underscoring his critical role in the team’s runner-up finish.

Strong Relay Performances and Highlights

Girls 200-yard Medley Relay
The team of Nerea Guitierrez Steinhaue, Cecilie Von Klaeden, Alexia Sotomayor, and Alera Hurwitz captured second place, delivering a strong start for the Scots in the medley relay.

Boys 200-yard Medley Relay
Conner Brinley, Carlos Flores Pinedo, Lucas Bailey, and Jared Berke claimed second place while breaking a Saint Andrew’s school record with a time of 1:30.78, surpassing the previous record set in 2017.

Girls 200-yard Free Relay
The girls’ team of Cecilie Von Klaeden, Marcella Orlandini, Addison Kent, and Siena Griffiths rounded out the medalists with a third-place finish in the freestyle relay.

A Season to Remember

The State Swim Meet capped off a successful season for Saint Andrew’s Swimming and Diving teams, showcasing the depth of talent and teamwork across the program. With several state medalists, a state champion, and a school record broken, the Scots have much to celebrate.

Aquatic Director and Head Coach Sid Cassidy praised the teams, saying, “The hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship demonstrated by our swimmers and divers this season are a testament to the strength of our program and the commitment of our athletes and coaches.”

As the seniors prepare to graduate, the underclassmen are already looking ahead to next season, aiming to build on the team’s impressive legacy.

Congratulations to the Saint Andrew’s School Swimming and Diving teams on an incredible state meet and an outstanding season!