Bulldog swim team begins title quest

BOISE — The Sandpoint swim team begins their quest for the school's first-ever championship trophy today as the state meet begins in Boise.

"I don't like to make predictions, but this is our best chance to win state," says Brosnahan, whose teams have finished second before. "They've worked hard all season. There's nothing left in the bag of tricks to sprinkle on them. They're calm and rested, the work has been done."

The girls' team has a great shot at winning a title in the 37-team, two-day meet where all schools compete under one classification. They will be led by Paulina Gralow, who Brosnahan believes is talented enough to win both of her individual events — the 100-meter breaststroke and the 200 individual medley — as well as a couple relays. Just a sophomore, Gralow is one of the best swimmers in the state.

Brosnahan says in a meet as big as state it's not about the most first places, but team points, where solid depth is the Bulldogs' strength. Rounding out the 13 girls whose times qualified them for state are Pauline Brothers, Laura Lockwood, Sam Trulock, Vanessa Stanley, Erin Stanley, Anna Thorell, Laura Hackworthy, Emily Ogle, Tina Wilson, Hillari Contor, Meranda Carter and Lynn DiBenedetto.

It's quality, not quantity that defines the boys' team. While only eight boys posted state-qualifying times, Brosnahan believes they can sneak up on a lot of teams.

"The best case is they rip it up in the relays," says Brosnahan of his boys. "They have the potential to be a top-placing team."

Leading the way will be Eric Mann and Connor Keith, both of whom Brosnahan believes can win individual titles. He also says backstoke specialists Todd Stoner and Colton Story have the speed to win races. Bryce Lovrin, Cameron Hay, Nick Dutton and Steve Omodt round out the boys' team.