The Boys Swimming and Diving program is excited to be back in their home pool this year at Saint Catherine University, The Raiders could not use their pool last season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The team has experienced great success this season with the addition of a talented group of 9th graders to the team:Ky Pollardcrowghost ’25, Jack Kirchberg ’25, John Kovats ’25, Isaac Van Oosterom ’25, Marcus Simmons ’25 and Finn Cox ’25.
The Raiders’ final regular season record is 6-5 and they are now are in the process of training for their junior varsity conference meet and varsity sectional meet. The Raiders’ presence at the state meet is never a guarantee due to having to place in the top two in the sectional race to qualify. However, they have had great success in the past especially in the 400 freestyle relay and the 200 medley relay, and in certain individual events. Last year, CDH had these two relays qualify for the state meet as well as captain Jacob Wahlstrom ‘22 qualify for the 100 breaststroke and captain Luke Leonidas ‘22 qualify for the 200 IM and the 100 backstroke.
Last year Leonidas placed 4th overall in the 100 backstroke with a 50.35 and was just shy of an All- American time by only a few hundredths of a second.
“I have high expectations for the state meet, and will hopefully be able to improve from earlier years. I would like to thank my family and coaches that have helped me get to this spot in my swim career,” said Leonidas
Leonidas will continue to swim throughout college for the University of Minnesota and is excited to perform at the next level.
Another key swimmer for the Raiders is Matt Baumberger ’24. Only 15 years of age, Baumberger swims a 53.50 in the 100 butterfly which is the 5th fastest time in Cretin-Derham Hall history.
“I feel like I have a great support system through this team and that we are a really strong group,” said Baumberger.
Things are looking great for the Cretin-Derham Hall boys swim team this postseason and the team is excited to show well in sectional and state competition.