The GlenOak swim teams are making waves
CANTON, Ohio — For half a century, the GlenOak Swimming and Diving team has been a powerhouse in the Northeast Aquatic Conference and the Federal League. With an impressive legacy that includes 44 All-Americans, 10 Individual State Champions, and even a First Place Team finish at the State Championship, the program has built a tradition of excellence. The team, led by Head Coach Zac Hawkins and Assistant Coaches Anthony Ferrell, Sherrie Kimble, Delaney Ferrell, and Sarah Mally, continues to uphold its storied reputation, developing top-tier athletes who push themselves to achieve greatness.
Recent standout performances have kept the GlenOak name prominent in Ohio swimming. Braden Knoch made waves with a Top 16 finish at the State Championships in 2019, and in 2023, the Boys 200 Freestyle Relay team—comprising Blayne Maurer, Jacob Harms, Layne Studer, and Matt Calvert—secured 19th place at the State Meet. The team is eager to build on these successes this season, setting ambitious goals, including qualifying all six relays for the District Meet and ensuring both the boys’ and girls’ 200 Freestyle Relays make it to the State Championship.
Leadership plays a critical role in the team’s success, and this year’s captains, Sydney Harbour, Alex Click, Kylee Pudder, and Nico Burress, embody the dedication and drive necessary to lead by example. Their commitment to excellence inspires their teammates to push beyond their limits and strive for collective success.
Beyond their time in the water, the team thrives on unity and camaraderie. A long-standing pre-meet tradition involves the captains blowing into a conch shell to signal the start of their team cheer, a rallying moment that fuels their competitive spirit. Another beloved tradition is awarding a plastic duck named Quacks to athletes who deliver outstanding performances during meets, reinforcing the team’s positive and supportive culture.
Welcoming new members is a priority, and the team ensures a smooth transition with inclusive pasta dinners, social gatherings, and a unique Green and Gold intersquad meet. This fun and educational competition not only introduces new swimmers to the team’s structure but also strengthens the bond between teammates. Victories and strong performances are celebrated with team outings to local restaurants, turning each success into an opportunity for connection and shared joy.
Although no new records have been broken this season, the team remains motivated by last year’s remarkable achievement when Maya Bautista set a new standard in the six-meter diving event. This year’s swimmers are driven to continue GlenOak’s proud legacy, upholding the tradition of sending a qualifier to the State Championship every other year—a streak that must continue after last season’s near miss.
The dedication, discipline, and camaraderie among GlenOak’s swimmers make them a force to be reckoned with. They hold each other accountable, pushing one another to new heights, and remain determined to showcase their relentless effort to their families, friends, and community. With their eyes set on their goals and the unwavering support of their coaches, the GlenOak Swimming and Diving team is ready to make waves once again.
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