Senior Brian Wilbur winning the 100 meter breastroke event at the Maryland State Championships in February.

by Hannah Mushahwar ‘24

Sherwood swim and dive has left an incredible mark on the pool this season. With dedication, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence, the team has not only achieved remarkable individual accomplishments but have also solidified their reputation as a powerhouse after its influx of swimmers this season.

The season kicked off with a wave of enthusiasm as the swimmers dove headfirst into rigorous training regimens. Though some may have been skeptical of the practicality of taking on such a large team of nearly 100 swimmers, coach Ryan Burnsky proved it was possible and successful as the season went on. The support and camaraderie at meets was unquestionably a key factor to the team’s success, as swimmers cheered each other on and celebrated victories collectively.

Following the regular season, one of the standout performances included the team’s stellar showing at the regional championship. Senior and captain Brian Wilbur won the regional champion title for the 200 meter IM and 100meter breaststroke–also breaking the school’s 100 meter breaststroke record. Senior and captain Adrianna Caponiti won the regional champion title for 100 fly, as did freshman Nicholas Liberty in 500 free. For the dive team, seniors Mark Williams, Owen Mascott, Maddie Simpkins, and junior Dorothy Young represented at regionals.
Not only did the team dominate in individual events, but also showcased their depth and versatility with strong relay performances at regionals where Wilbur, junior Justin Lakso, freshman Tyler Kominski and Williams set a new school record in the 200 free relay. Overall, both the boys and girls’ teams placed 2nd.

As the team pushed forward into states, the determination remained high. The team had better prospects at the state championships compared to Metros, as Metros encompasses both public and private high schools, creating a broader and often more competitive field, while state championships exclusively feature public schools. Wilbur proved that to be very true as he outshone his rivals, winning the state champion title in 100 meter breaststroke with a time of 55.45 seconds. The state participants showcased the culmination of months of hard work, accumulating in a great season finisher at states where boys placed 8th and girls followed shortly behind for 11th.

Though the team has many seniors leaving, great prospects are in sight as some prepare to move forward into their collegiate teams. “I am so excited to continue my swimming career,” said Caponiti. “I am committed to swim Division 1 at Loyola University Maryland, and I couldn’t be more grateful.” As for the Sherwood team, many freshmen are on the rise. This year, Mia Fecko, Liberty, and Kominski have already made it into top qualifying competitions such as regionals, where their horizons will only expand with each season and will take the team very far.