Seahawks’ Senior Night is one to remember

Sussex Academy’s Class of 2024 swimmers wrapped up their final home dual meet Jan. 26 against Polytech.

“When I touched the wall I realized, ‘oh my God, this is the last home dual meet with [Victoria Evans],” said senior Itzel Gomez Sanchez.

Gomez Sanchez had an emotional moment with the sophomore following the backstroke event. It was one of many tearful moments for the Sussex Academy Class of ‘24 swimmers. 

“Funnily enough, I started swimming with Itzel when I was 5; we swam on the same team when we were little,” said senior Gracie Maughan.

Throughout seasons filled with memorable moments, Maughan said her best memory is not only her state title, but also when coach Tom Martiner teared up after she won. 

Senior Hannah Carlisle was also recognized for her first year competing on the swim team. The girls claimed first in every event Jan. 26 on the way to a 106-60 victory.

The boys’ team secured a 92-72 win against the Panthers by finishing first in all but the 500 freestyle.

Brayden Trout also began swimming at the age of 5. Similar to Maughan, Trout embraces the team aspect but also likes the individual accountability involved and how it all comes together during relay events.

“My favorite memory was my first year, eighth grade, when I qualified for states at conferences. I wasn’t expecting to because I never swam the 100 fly or anything, and it was the first event I ever qualified for states in,” Trout said.

Trout won both the butterfly and 200 individual medley Jan. 26 and was joined in the pool by fellow senior Carter Bradley for both events. Bradley began swimming eight years ago after first trying soccer.

“I think I made a couple of splashes here. I’m really happy with my career overall at Sussex Academy. I love my teammates,” Bradley said.

Bradley said the support his swim teammates gave him helped him to break out of his shell and he’s made lifelong friends.

“If you think about this senior class, they were freshmen during the COVID year, so they really had a curveball thrown at them both academically and athletically. To see them excel has been a real treat,” Martiner said.

Martiner said the challenge this time of year is making sure the kids are peaking as they head into conferences and states.

The Seahawks will take on Lake Forest at 3:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan 30.