Sun Coast Swim Team Excels at 2024 WFLA Spring Open

Thomas Kennedy

Sun Coast Swim Team Excels at 2024 WFLA Spring Open

The Sun Coast Swim Team made another big splash at the recent 2024 WFLA Spring Open, showcasing their talent and determination at the Southwest Pool Complex in Largo, Florida. Fifteen swimmers from the team, hailing from the Bicentennial Park Pool in Crystal River, traveled to Largo for this event, hosted by West Florida Lightning Aquatics.

Morgan Gibson (16) showcased her exceptional skills that qualified her for the highly coveted USA Swimming Sectionals in both the 100m Breaststroke (1:19.30) and 200m Breaststroke (2:54.62) events. Gibson not only achieved personal bests in all her races but also secured two 1st Place, two 2nd Place, and three 3rd Place finishes. Her outstanding performance earned her the High Point Award for Senior Women.

Chase Alford (10), showcased his potential by achieving Florida Age Group (FLAG) Championship qualifying cut times in multiple events, accompanied by numerous personal records. Alford's achievements included three 2nd Place and two 3rd Place finishes.

Cullen Alford (12) continued the team's success by achieving a FLAG qualifying cut time, securing one 2nd Place and two 3rd Place finishes highlighting his promise and dedication to the sport.

Halle Filipic (10) displayed her growing prowess by adding to her FLAG cut times and achieving two 2nd Place finishes.

Emma Grady (10), also ended the Spring season on a high note with a 3rd Place finish in the 50m Fly at the meet, showcasing her potential for future success.

Cruz Helmstetter (17) achieved personal records in multiple events and clinched 3rd Place in the 200m Breaststroke, demonstrating his skill and determination in the pool.

Daniel "Danny" Pontrelli II (18), who recently committed to swim for the NAIA National Championship St. Thomas University Men’s Swim Team, delivered an impressive performance with a personal record in the 200m Free, highlighting his continued growth and success as a swimmer.

Lia Richards (15) concluded the spring season with top 5 finishes in events and a personal record in the 100m Fly, showcasing her potential for future achievements this summer.

These exceptional performances were not limited to the highlighted swimmers, as numerous other team members set personal records, demonstrating the depth of talent and dedication within the Sun Coast Swim Team.

The Sun Coast Swim Team's success at the 2024 WFLA Spring Open is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and passion for the sport. These achievements not only reflect the individual talent of each swimmer but also the collective effort and support within the team and coaching staff. As they continue to excel in swimming competitions, the Sun Coast Swim Team is poised to make continual lasting impact on the swimming community, inspiring future generations of athletes to reach for their dreams in and out of the pool.

For more information on the Sun Coast Swim Team visit www.SunCoastSwimTeam.com.

List of Swimmers who competed for Sun Coast Swim Team at the 2024 WFLA Spring Open:

Chase Alford (10)

Cullen Alford (12)

Cypress Collins (11)

Jocelyn Daugherty (12)

Evie Filipic (6)

Halle Filipic (10)

Gabriel Fogarty (16)

Morgan Gibson (16)

Emma Grady (10)

Grayson Grady (6)