SPSL NORTH
BOYS SWIMMING: AT A GLANCE
• FAVORITE: Kentridge
• CONTENDERS: Kentwood, Jefferson, Kentlake.
• SLEEPER: Kent-Meridian.
• NOTABLE/OUTLOOK: Kentridge entered the season having won 22 straight dual meets, a streak that dates back to Dec. 6, 2005, when the Chargers tied Enumclaw, 93-93. Always among the teams with the highest numbers, Kentridge welcomed six freshmen divers this season, a bit of an anomaly in the sport. … Mat Bailey, a state qualifier in the 200 IM last year as a freshman with Kentridge, has transferred to Kent-Meridian. Bailey’s arrival gives the Royals two state veterans. Kyle Axtell, one of the premier divers in the league, made it to state for the Royals last winter. … Kentwood freshmen John Perko already has turned some heads. A sprint freestyler, he has the potential to advance to district, and possibly even to state, according to Kentwood coach Sharon Wright. Andrew Douglass (500) is Kentwood’s lone returning state qualifier. … David Beyer has taken over at Kentlake for Caroline Whitlock. Beyer also coaches Kentlake’s girls team. … Tahoma clearly is on its way up. Last year, the Bears had only 12 swimmers turn out. This year, that number has swelled to 25.
MUST-SEE MEETS
Kentlake at Kentridge, Jan. 6: The Falcons graduated plenty of talent, but they still should challenge the Chargers.
Kentwood at Kentridge, Jan. 8: Crucial week continues for North favorite Kentridge. A win here likely puts league title in KR’s hands again.
District meet, Rogers High, Feb. 6-7: The final opportunity for swimmers to advance to state meet, it’s a must-see.
