DCY Swim Team Shines at YMCA State Swimming Championships

Door County YMCA Shines at YMCA State Swimming Championships

Door County, WI –The YMCA State Swimming Championships took place this past weekend at the Walter Schroeder Aquatic Center, where the Door County YMCA swim team showcased an outstanding performance. With 57 swimmers competing, the team demonstrated remarkable achievements and resilience throughout the event.

The State meet is known for its intense emotional swings, as swimmers experience both incredible breakthroughs and challenges. This year’s competition featured swimmers ranging from ages 6 to 18, allowing young athletes to witness firsthand the possibilities that dedicated training can bring.

Exceptional Team Performance

The Door County YMCA team posted an impressive 83% of personal best times, a testament to their hard work and determination. Among the weekend’s highlights was Caitlyn Hasenjager, who was awarded second place in the YMCA Character Scholarship program, earning a $400 scholarship. This prestigious award recognizes athletes who exhibit personal growth through swimming.

Individual and Relay Successes

The competition featured 144 events across multiple age groups. Swimmers must meet time standards to qualify, making participation itself a significant accomplishment. Many of the Door County YMCA swimmers placed highly in their respective events:

· 13 swimmers placed 6th

· 7 individuals and 4 relays placed 5th

· 10 individuals and 5 relays placed 4th

· 9 individuals and 3 relays earned 3rd place trophies

· 7 individuals and 1 relay secured 2nd place finishes

State Champions and Record-Breaking Performances

The Door County YMCA celebrated nine individual State Champions and one relay team victory:

· Nadia Kurek (10 years old): 100 Freestyle, 100 Backstroke

· Zofia Michalski (12 years old): 50 Freestyle, 100 Individual Medley, 50 Backstroke

· Landon Reinhardt (11 years old): 50 Breaststroke, 100 Breaststroke

· Sue Mann (15 & Older): 50 Freestyle

· Daylia Sund (15 & Older): 100 Breaststroke – New Team Record and National Time

· 11-12 Girls Relay Team: Zofia Michalski, Gwen Preis, Avery Hanson, Ashlyn Sixel

National Qualifiers and Inspirational Moments

Several swimmers also secured National qualifications, including:

· Thomas Kratcha: Qualified for Nationals in the 100 Breaststroke for the first time

· Julia Michalski: Achieved three National individual event qualifications, including a four-second drop in the 200 Individual Medley

· Daylia Sund: Set a new team record in the 100 Breaststroke, securing a time that positions her for the Finals at Nationals; later achieved the National Cut in the 200 Breaststroke after a second attempt in a time trial

· Girls’ 200 Free and Medley Relays: Achieved National qualification standards

A Unified Effort

The success of the Door County YMCA swim team was made possible through the dedication of coaches, parents, and supporters, who provided guidance and encouragement every step of the way. Their unwavering commitment helped push the team to an unforgettable weekend of achievement.

“So many emotions were felt this weekend. Swimming isn’t just about teaching strokes or perfecting techniques. It’s about inspiring, empowering, and guiding athletes to discover their true potential both in and out of the pool. We are incredibly proud of our team, the way our teammates support each other and lift each other up after a great (or not so great) race is what truly matters. Congratulations to everyone!” –Said Krista Schley, DCY Swim Coach

With these outstanding performances, the Door County YMCA swim team has set the stage for future success at the National level. Congratulations to all the athletes for their hard work, resilience, and sportsmanship!

For more information on the Door County YMCA Swim Team and upcoming events, visit www.DoorCountyYMCA.org or contact Mike McHugh.